Boxelder Bugs (6430)

The boxelder bug frequently becomes a nuisance pest around homes and buildings near plantings of the boxelder, Acer negundo. In heavily infested areas, they often are associated with ash (Fraxinus spp.) and maple (Acer spp.). This insect species is distributed throughout eastern United States west to Nevada.
With the approach of fall, this species congregates in large numbers on the south side of trees, buildings, and rocks exposed to the sun. It is during this period that homeowners become aware of the insects. Adult boxelder bugs will frequently attempt to enter cracks and crevices in the walls, in an attempt to secure a protected, over-wintering site, occasionally finding their way into the living areas of homes. In late April to early May, the bugs emerge from hibernation about the time buds on boxelder trees begin opening. They fly back to host trees where they remain active over the growing season.

For more inforation, please visit this Penn State Fact Sheet.

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Penn State Entomology Department

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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