Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found on boxelder, maple, and ash trees. They often move to the south sides of buildings or inside homes during cold weather to seek warmth.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, primarily feeding on the seeds, flowers, and leaves of boxelder trees, and occasionally other maples or fruit trees.

Behavior Patterns

They are diurnal and highly gregarious, often clustering in large groups on sun-exposed surfaces. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and do not cause significant damage to plants; they are considered a nuisance pest when they invade homes in large numbers. They may leave small stains on surfaces with their excrement.

Identified on: 3/7/2026