Boxelder Bug nymph

Natural Habitat

Typically found on or near boxelder, maple, and ash trees; often observed on mulch, building foundations, and sunny exterior walls.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they primarily suck juices from the seeds, leaves, and soft twigs of host trees, especially female boxelder trees.

Behavior Patterns

They undergo incomplete metamorphosis. Nymphs are bright red and lack fully developed wings. They congregate in large groups during the summer and fall to sunbathe.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests and do not sting or transmit diseases; they pose no significant risk to humans, structures, or healthy trees, though their excrement can stain surfaces.

Identified on: 6/11/2026