Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found on or near boxelder, maple, and ash trees. They often move to sunny walls of buildings or enter homes during cooler months to seek warmth for overwintering.

Diet & Feeding

They primarily feed on the seeds and developing leaves of female boxelder trees, but may also consume sap from maple and ash trees.

Behavior Patterns

They are social insects that often congregate in large groups in the sun. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult). During winter, they enter diapause and seek shelter in building crevices.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests; they do not sting or transmit disease, and they generally do not cause significant damage to the trees they inhabit. Their feces can leave stains on fabric or wallpaper, and they may emit a foul odor if crushed.

Identified on: 2/16/2026