Every year, boxelder bugs make their way into homes to hibernate over the winter months. You may find them inside sheds and garages as well. They make their way back outdoors in the springtime, sometimes gathering in large quantities that resemble a swarm.
While these pests aren't a health risk, they are still an unwanted guest that causes headaches for homeowners, making Marshalltown pest control for boxelder bugs a priority. In the guide below, learn the facts about boxelder bugs and why you should call Schendel Pest Control to take care of an infestation.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs are long, oval-shaped insects roughly half an inch in length. They are mostly black with red or orange markings on their backs. They have six legs and two antennae. Their name comes from the boxelder tree, which is where they prefer to set up their habitats. Boxelder bugs hibernate until March and April, when the boxelder trees begin to form their buds. They feed on fallen seeds from the trees and newly-formed leaves.
Finding boxelder bugs in Marshalltown is a common occurrence. You may notice more boxelder bug infestations in the autumn when they gather in masses before going back into hibernation or "overwintering." They prefer to gather on surfaces warmed by the sun, including buildings, rocks, and other trees.
Are Boxelder Bugs Dangerous?
Many consider boxelder bugs to be more of a nuisance pest because they don't cause any structural damage to homes. They also don't carry infectious diseases and won't make you and your family sick. Avoiding boxelder bug bites is fairly simple. It's very rare for them to bite humans or animals. Occasionally, the pincers around their mouths can pierce the skin, resulting in a small, raised red bite, similar to that from a mosquito.
Getting rid of boxelder bugs can be quite tricky, as these pests are tough to eliminate without professional help. They find their way into homes and hide in any cracks or crevices that can keep them warm, making them hard to find.
It's important not to crush these bugs whenever possible. Boxelder bugs give off an unpleasant odor if they are handled or killed, which attracts larger pests that feed on them, like beetles. They also leave behind red stains that can ruin drapes, furniture, and carpeting when crushed. If you absolutely must remove them yourself, use a vacuum to suck up the bugs without damaging them. If you have an infestation, it's best to rely on professional pest control services that specialize in boxelder bug control.
What Do You Do If You See Boxelder Bugs On Your Trees?
Discovering boxelder bugs hanging around your property can be frustrating. Luckily, there are several ways to prevent them from getting into your home. Try putting these simple methods into practice today:
- Trim or remove boxelder trees from your property, as they are one of their food sources. You can recognize these trees because they form pods that look like tiny helicopters that attract boxelder bugs. Remove any fallen pods from your lawn.
- Caulk and seal any gaps around your door and window frames.
- Clean surfaces that are known to attract boxelder bugs with dish soap or scented cleaning solutions.
- Cover electrical outlets and repair any loose coverings. Boxelder bugs are attracted to heat and may congregate around your electrical wiring.
The best way to rid yourself of these pests is to work with a company that knows how to get rid of boxelder bugs, like Schendel Pest Control.
How Do You Prevent Future Boxelder Bug Infestations?
Homeowners searching for boxelder bug pest control in Marshalltown should contact Schendel Pest Control. We are a third-generation family-owned business and have served the Marshalltown area since 1955. Our highly effective solutions will keep your property free from boxelder bugs so you can get back to enjoying your yard. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today.
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