It is an Evasion of the Boxelder Bug

It is that time of year when we start to hundreds of these insects.  It is the less than loved Boxelder bug, Boisea trviittatus.  These insects are most active in the fall as they start to find overwintering sites.  We see them on sunny sides of trees or buildings and even coming into your homes.  A few interesting facts about these unwelcome fall guests:

-Boxelder bugs are attracted to their food source which is the seeds of maple trees.

-Boxelder does not bite or sting but will stink if disturbed or smashed.

-Boxelder does feed on juices of plants especially plants in the maple family, but even in large numbers, there is little to no damage.

Boxelder bugs may be mistaken as a few other insects.

A few ways to manage Boxelder bugs:

1.  Dish soap and water spray.  Mix a tablespoon of dish soap (do not use antibacterial) in a liter of water.  This spray can be sprayed on insects and this spray will repel these insects.
2. Vacuum.  As soon as you see these insects, use a vacuum to remove them from your home.  Please clean the vacuum right away to prevent the insects from escaping.
3. Remove or Trim Box elder trees.  These insects use seeds as a food source removing their food will help to reduce the number of these insects.