Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Found throughout North America near boxelder, maple, and ash trees; often found on the sun-facing sides of buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Feed primarily on the seeds, leaves, and flowers of boxelder trees, as well as some other maple species.

Behavior Patterns

They are gregarious insects that often congregate in large numbers to sunbathe. During autumn, they seek shelter in cracks and crevices of buildings to overwinter.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest rather than a threat; they do not sting or transmit diseases and only rarely cause minor damage to host trees or ornamental plants.

Identified on: 6/17/2026