Here in Oklahoma City, boxelder bugs may not be the most dangerous pests. They don’t tend to inspire nightmares or horror films quite like spiders do, and they don’t have the health consequences of ticks and mosquitoes.
But despite their seemingly innocuous nature, they can certainly be one of the most annoying.
Did you know that a single female boxelder bug can lay up to 200 eggs? This means that what starts as a small inconvenience can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation. If you’ve noticed these pesky red and black bugs around your home or on your lawn, it’s time to take action.
We’ll show you how to get rid of boxelder bugs effectively – and keep them away for good.
Identifying Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder bugs are small, about half an inch long, and have black bodies with distinctive red or orange markings. They are often found clustering in large groups on the sunny sides of trees, buildings, or rocks.
So why do they come inside in the first place? The same reason you do! These bugs seek warmth and shelter as the weather cools down.
Typically, they’re found near boxelder trees, their primary food source, but they can also be around maple and ash trees. The main reason they invade homes is to find a warm place to hibernate during the winter months.
The good news is that boxelder bugs do not bite, sting, or cause significant damage to structures. However, they can stain walls, curtains, and furniture with their excrement. Plus, large infestations can be quite a nuisance – nobody wants to have bugs crawling around their home, after all.
Signs of a Boxelder Bug Infestation
One of the first signs of a boxelder bug problem is seeing them gather in large numbers on the sunny sides of your home. They’re attracted to warmth, so you may also find them near windows and doors.
If you start seeing boxelder bugs inside your home, especially during the fall and winter, it’s a clear sign that they have found a way inside. They often enter through small cracks and crevices.
Boxelder bugs can leave behind excrement that stains surfaces. In large numbers, they can also produce an unpleasant odor.
How to Prevent Boxelder Bug Infestations
While boxelder bugs aren’t pleasant to deal with, you’ll be relieved to hear that you can prevent these pests in more or less the same ways you prevent other types of household pests:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps where boxelder bugs could enter. Seal these entry points with caulk or weather stripping. Pay special attention to areas around doors, windows, and utility lines.
- Install Screens: Make sure all windows and vents have screens that are in good repair. This will help keep boxelder bugs and other pests out.
- Remove Food Sources: Since boxelder bugs are attracted to boxelder, maple, and ash trees, consider removing these trees from your property if possible. At the very least, keep the area around your home free of fallen leaves and other debris.
How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
So the preventative methods described above didn’t work, and now you’re stuck with a boxelder bug infestation. That’s unfortunate, but fortunately, there are some painless steps you can take to get rid of them before the infestation becomes too severe. Many of these work well for other types of pests, like ants, too.
A simple and effective way to remove boxelder bugs from your home is to vacuum them up. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag afterward to prevent them from escaping.
You can also mix up a solution of water and dish soap and spray it directly on the bugs. This will kill them on contact. This solution can also be used to wipe down areas where they congregate.
As for chemical methods,insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to kill boxelder bugs. It works by breaking down the outer layer of the bug, causing it to dehydrate and die. Follow the instructions on the label for best results.
For more severe infestations, you may need to use a residual insecticide. These products can be applied to the exterior of your home and will continue to kill bugs for several weeks. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines when using chemical insecticides.
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of boxelder bugs, it may be time to call in the professionals. Pest control experts have access to stronger treatments and can provide ongoing maintenance to keep the bugs at bay.
Even after you’ve gotten rid of the initial infestation, pest control pros (like our team here at Thunder Pest Control), can help you by regularly inspecting your home for signs of boxelder bugs. After all, early detection is the key to preventing future problems.
Why Choose Thunder Pest Control in Oklahoma City?
If you’re in Oklahoma City and struggling with a boxelder bug infestation, Thunder Pest Control is here to help. Our team of experts can quickly and effectively eliminate these pests from your home and provide ongoing maintenance to keep them away. We use safe and environmentally friendly methods to ensure the health and safety of your family.
Don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Contact Thunder Pest Control today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a boxelder bug-free home. Visit our website or call us now.
Dealing with boxelder bugs can be a hassle, but with the right approach, you can get rid of them and keep them from coming back. Whether you choose natural methods, chemical treatments, or professional pest control, the key is to act quickly and stay vigilant.
Remember, the best way to prevent a boxelder bug infestation is to make your home as uninviting as possible. Seal entry points, remove food sources, and keep your home clean. And if you’re in Oklahoma City and need professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Thunder Pest Control for expert assistance.
Take control of your home today and say goodbye to boxelder bugs for good!
