Boxelder Bug Nymph

Scientific Name: Boisea trivittata

Order & Family: Hemiptera: Rhopalidae

Size: Nymphs vary from 1.5 mm (newly hatched) up to 13 mm as they reach adulthood.

Boxelder Bug Nymph

Natural Habitat

Found primarily on female boxelder trees, but also on maple and ash trees; often seek shelter in houses during fall.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, feeding mainly on the juices found in seeds, flowers, and leaves of host trees (primarily boxelder).

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs are bright red and lack wings initially. They are Gregarious insects, often found in large clusters on sunny surfaces like rocks or buildings.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that do not bite or sting. They do not cause significant damage to healthy plants but can leave red stains on fabrics if crushed.

Identified on: 6/11/2026