Western Boxelder Bug

Primarily found on or near boxelder trees, as well as maple and ash trees; common in residential areas and gardens in Western North America.

Feed primarily on the juices from the seeds, leaves, and soft twigs of boxelder trees and other acer species.

They are known for congregating in large numbers on sunny south-facing walls and indoors during the fall to seek warmth for overwintering. They undergo simple metamorphosis from nymph to adult.

Harmless to humans as they do not sting or transmit diseases, though they can leave stains and emit a foul odor if crushed. They are considered a nuisance pest rather than a threat to the ecosystem.