There are elders with wisdom, some have great stories and sound advice. There are some elders that are just plain old (like uncle Bob) and then there are boxelders, bugs that is. If you have boxelder bugs, you know they are more a nuisance than a serious problem, not unlike your uncle Bob. Boxelder bugs love the warm weather so you may not notice them as much in the Spring and Summer months because they like to hang out outside. But come Fall and Winter, when the weather turns, that is when they start moving in.
What Do Boxelder Bugs Look Like?
Boxelder Bugs are:
- About 1/2 in. long
- Black with orange and red markings along their back
- Their wings lay across their back giving the illusion of an “X”
Boxelder bugs have piercing sucking mouths and are in the same family as cicada’s and stink bugs. You probably do not want to step on them as they can produce a foul odor (also like uncle Bob).
How To Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
As with any pest the best plan of action is to take preventative measures:
- Seal all gaps and crevices that lead into your home.
- Make sure all yard clutter and leaves are cleaned up.
- Make sure all tree limbs and bushes are trimmed away from your house.
- Give your house the force field it needs with professional grade products.
If these little guys have breached your walls, here are a couple of things to think about: do not crush or step on because their excrement can stain your walls or fabrics. If you are just seeing one or two, it is best to just sweep them up or vacuum them up. But if they have come with all the aunts and uncles, then we are going to have to take a more forceful approach. Not to fear, HowToPest.com has the right products for you. Talstar P is a great tool in your fight against boxelder bugs. Talstar P is labeled for indoor and outdoor use but is not labeled for uncle Bob!
Just remember, as the weather cools down all types of elders may be looking for a place to keep warm!
HowToPest.com out!