Bug Identifier
Boxelder Bug (Nymph)
Community identification

Boxelder Bug (Nymph)

Boisea trivittata

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Rhopalidae
Size
Nymphs range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch (1.5 to 12 mm) as they mature.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Primarily found on boxelder, maple, and ash trees; often seen on the sunny sides of buildings, rocks, and trees.

Diet & Feeding

Nymphs feed on the sap from seeds, leaves, and tender twigs of host trees, especially the female boxelder tree.

Behavior Patterns

They are gregarious, often clustering together in large numbers. In autumn, they seek out cracks and crevices in houses to overwinter in a dormant state.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests rather than dangerous insects; they do not sting or transmit disease, though their excrement can stain surfaces and they may emit a foul odor if crushed.