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Problem:
Box elder bugs

Image of Box elder bugs

Problem Info

During the fall, hordes of brownish black bugs 1/2 inch long with red stripes on their wings swarm into the home and outdoor living areas. During the fall, especially on bright, sunny days, the bugs migrate in large numbers into tree trunks and homes to hibernate for the winter. They congregate on walls, walks, furniture, draperies, and other objects. When crushed, they emit a very strong, unpleasant odor.

Analysis

Leptocoris species These insects are common in all parts of the country. They are most numerous in areas where box elder trees (Acer negundo) grow. In spring the female bugs lay eggs in the bark of box elders or sometimes of maples, ash, and fruit trees. The young feed on tender twigs, foliage, and seeds through the spring and summer. During the fall, especially on bright, sunny days, the bugs migrate in large numbers into tree trunks, homes, buildings, or other dry, protected locations to hibernate for the winter. These bugs do not feed on fabric or furniture, but they may stain household items with their excrement. Box elder bugs occasionally bite, and they may feed on houseplants.

Solution Advice

Keep the doors and windows screened and the cracks around them well sealed.

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