Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in North America near female boxelder trees, but also maple and ash trees; often enter homes in the fall Seeking warmth.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, primarily feeding on the seeds, flowers, and leaves of boxelder trees and other acer species using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Behavior Patterns

They are diurnal and congregate in large groups on sun-facing walls. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult) and hibernating during winter.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered a nuisance pest rather than a danger; they do not sting or transmit disease, though they may stain light-colored surfaces with their excrement or emit a foul odor if crushed.

Identified on: 4/6/2026