If you’re noticing tiny red and black bugs crawling on your windowsills, walls, or even your lawn, you might be dealing with boxelder bugs. While they aren’t the most dangerous pests, they can be a major nuisance, especially as the colder months approach. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify, prevent, and effectively get rid of boxelder bugs, and how pest control Lawton OK services can keep your home pest-free year-round. If you’re in need of pest control or boxelder bug exterminator services, Thunder Pest Control is just a call away.
Identifying Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are small, typically about half an inch long, with black bodies and distinctive red or orange markings. They are usually found in large clusters on the sunny sides of trees, rocks, or buildings.
So why do they come inside in the first place? Boxelder bugs seek warmth as the weather cools down, just like you! They’re attracted to the warmth of homes in fall and early winter, making their way indoors through small cracks and crevices.
While boxelder bugs don’t bite, sting, or damage structures, they can stain surfaces with their excrement and create an unpleasant odor when disturbed. This is where boxelder bug pest control becomes necessary to manage large infestations and keep your home clean.
Signs of a Boxelder Bug Infestation
You may first notice boxelder bugs gathering on the sunny sides of your house, especially around windows, doors, and foundation cracks. If you’re seeing them indoors, particularly during the fall and winter months, they’ve found a way inside and are likely hibernating.
Other Signs Include:
- Excrement stains on walls, curtains, and furniture
- An unpleasant odor when disturbed
- A growing number of bugs in your home, especially near entry points like windows
How to Prevent Boxelder Bug Infestations
Getting rid of boxelder bugs starts with preventing them from getting in. Here’s how you can keep these pests at bay:
1. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home for cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and around utility lines. Seal these areas with caulk or weather stripping to prevent Lawton pest control issues.
2. Install Screens
Ensure all windows and vents are properly screened to keep boxelder bugs out.
3. Remove Food Sources
Boxelder bugs are attracted to boxelder, maple, and ash trees. If you have these trees on your property, consider removing them, or at the very least keep your yard tidy by raking up fallen leaves and debris.
How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
If you’re already dealing with a boxelder bug infestation, don’t worry! Here are some simple steps for getting rid of boxelder bugs from your home:
1. Vacuum Them Up
A quick and easy way to remove boxelder bugs is to vacuum them up. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag right away to prevent them from escaping.
2. Use Soapy Water
A simple solution of water and dish soap can be sprayed directly onto boxelder bugs to kill them on contact. This solution can also be used to wipe down areas where the bugs are congregating.
3. Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soap is another effective way of killing boxelder bugs. It breaks down the bug’s outer layer, causing it to dehydrate and die. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
4. Residual Insecticides
For larger infestations, you may need to use a residual insecticide around the exterior of your home. This will continue to kill boxelder bugs for weeks after application. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using these chemicals.
5. Call in a Professional Exterminator
If you’ve tried all these methods and still can’t get rid of boxelder bugs, it may be time to call a boxelder bug Lawton exterminator. Professionals like Thunder Pest Control have access to stronger treatments and can provide ongoing maintenance to prevent future infestations.
Why Choose Thunder Pest Control for Boxelder Bug Pest Control?
At Thunder Pest Control, we specialize in pest control for boxelder bugs and other seasonal pests. Whether you’re dealing with a minor nuisance or a major infestation, we offer safe, eco-friendly solutions that are effective and long-lasting.
Our Oklahoma City pest control services keep your home protected year-round. From initial inspection to targeted treatments, we’ve got you covered.
Our Services Include:
- Expert inspection and treatment for boxelder bugs
- Ongoing pest control Oklahoma City maintenance to prevent future infestations
- Safe, eco-friendly pest control solutions
Take Control Today
Don’t let boxelder bugs ruin your home’s comfort. If you’re in Lawton, OK, or the surrounding areas, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our expert extermination team will work quickly to eliminate these pests and keep your home bug-free year-round.
