Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found on and around Boxelder trees, and occasionally maple and ash trees; during fall, they often seek warmth on the sunny sides of buildings and crawl into crevices.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they primarily feed on the seeds and juices from the flowers and leaves of host trees (mainly female Boxelder trees) using their piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs emerge in spring and develop throughout the summer. In autumn, they congregate in large, visible groups on warm surfaces to overwinter. They are known to enter homes to seek shelter from the cold.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest rather than a threat. They do not sting, bite humans, or cause significant damage to properties or healthy trees. However, they can stain light-colored fabrics or walls with their excrement if crushed.

Identified on: 3/19/2026