Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found on boxelder, maple, and ash trees; often seek shelter in houses and buildings during winter months.

Diet & Feeding

Feed primarily on the seeds of female boxelder trees, but also consume sap from leaves, flowers, and twigs of maple and ash trees.

Behavior Patterns

Known for forming large, sun-seeking aggregations on the sides of buildings or trunks of trees. They undergo simple metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a nuisance pest; they do not sting or transmit diseases, but their excrement can stain surfaces and they may emit a foul odor when crushed.

Identified on: 6/25/2026