Boxelder Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found on boxelder trees, maple trees, and other seed-bearing trees; often move indoors during cooler months to overwinter.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds primarily on the sap and seeds of boxelder trees, as well as maple and ash trees.

Behavior Patterns

Gregarious, often congregating in large numbers on sunny surfaces of trees or homes, especially in the fall. They overwinter in protected places like cracks in foundations, walls, or under siding.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest when they invade homes in large numbers. They do not bite or transmit diseases, but their droppings can stain surfaces, and they can emit an unpleasant odor if crushed. They are not known to have significant benefits to ecosystems beyond being a food source for some predators.

Identified on: 9/24/2025