Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Found on boxelder, maple, and ash trees; can become nuisance pests by entering homes in autumn to overwinter.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds primarily on the sap and developing seeds of boxelder trees, but also occasionally on maple and ash trees. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract fluids from leaves, twigs, and seeds.

Behavior Patterns

Boxelder bugs are known for congregating in large numbers on sunny sides of buildings, rocks, and trees, especially in late summer and autumn. They seek sheltered places to overwinter, often entering homes through cracks and crevices. They are largely harmless but can be a nuisance.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include being a nuisance pest when they invade homes in large numbers. While they don't bite or sting, if crushed, they can emit a foul odor and sometimes stain surfaces. Benefits are minor; they are a small part of the ecosystem as a food source for some predators, but generally not considered beneficial to humans.

Identified on: 10/29/2025