box elder bugs in atlanta georgia
Boxelder bugs are fall pests. They are generally 1/2 inch in length and black with red markings along the edge of its wings. The box elder bug gets it’s name from their main food source, the box elder tree, although they have been know to feast on ash trees, maple trees, cherry trees and many other seed-bearing plants. Boxelder bugs feed by sucking sap from the leaves, shoots and seeds of the plant. Nymphs are similar to adults but lack wings although wingpads may be present, and they are bright red in color.
Generally, no. Box elder bugs are not a known danger to people or pets. The problem with box elder bugs is that the number tend to grow year after year and they can cause a red stain resulting in discoloration on curtains, drapes, clothing and other resting places.
If you or your neighbor have certain trees on or near your property, such as box elders, maple or ash, you may be more likely to encounter a boxelder bug problem in the fall. As the temperatures begin to drop in October each year, these nuisance pests begin searching for a warm place to spend the winter often making their way into your home through small cracks and crevices around windows and doors, in the foundation or gaps under siding. In the spring, the overwintering adults emerge from hibernation when the boxelder buds open and fly back to their host trees.
Once inside your home, boxelder bugs and other fall pests, such as stink bugs, hide in wall voids, attics and other concealed areas. Because of this and infesting in large numbers, getting rid of boxelder bugs is not an easy task. If you have a problem with boxelder bugs, contacting Monitor Pest Control is your best bet to get rid of these pests.
Do-it-yourself methods to get rid of boxelder bugs is not recommended. Many products available in hardware and box stores contain materials that are simply not effective and can be dangerous if improperly handled. Your best bet in getting rid of boxelder bugs is contacting the Sugar Hill pest control pros of Monitor Pest Control today!
With over 25 years of experience providing pest control in Sugar Hill and throughout Middle Georgia, we know the time, effort and commitment it takes to solve boxelder bug problems. With Monitor Pest Control, you’ll receive trained professionals, serious commitment and thorough treatments.
Boxelder bug problems are hard to prevent and they are determined to enter your home or building in search of a place to overwinter. Preventative measures include providing a highly repellant, long lasting residual barrier to the outside (especially sunny side) and cracks and crevices where the boxelder bugs like to get inside and hide. It is also important for you as the homeowner to seal all possible routes of entry. Use paintable silicone caulk and/or expandable foam to seal and keep boxelder bugs out of your house. If these measures are not enough, many customers choose Monitor Pest Control’s Once Per Year Pest Control program to ensure fall invaders don’t return.
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