Have you ever noticed that sometimes our walls and windowsills are suddenly filled with swarms of small insects? This situation is especially noticeable when the weather is a little colder. Most of the time, these are a species of insect called the Boxelder Bug. They are not really dangerous creatures that can cause us any serious diseases. However, when they swarm inside a house, it can be a very annoying and unpleasant experience. So, today we will talk about who these Boxelder Bugs are, what effects they can have, and how to control these annoying creatures from our homes.
Who is this Boxelder Bug?
Simply put, the Boxelder Bug is a species of insect. Scientifically, they belong to the same insect family as stinkbugs and cicadas, called ``Rhopalidae.`` Surprisingly, unlike other animals in this family, they are also called scentless bugs. However, if you crush them with your hand, they emit a very unpleasant odor.
Many people do not consider them as pests that cause significant damage, but rather as nuisance pests. They have a habit of crawling into homes to hibernate during the winter, especially when the cold season approaches.
How do they look?
It's very easy to recognize them.
- They have a flat, elongated brown-black body.
- The shape of the English letter X is clearly visible on the back as the two wings are folded over each other.
- There are red stripe-like markings on the edges of the wings and some parts of the head.
- The eyes are red, and the tips of the long legs are also reddish-orange.
- An adult animal is usually about half an inch long.
How is the life cycle?
There are three main stages in the life of this insect.
1. Egg stage
2. Nymph stage
3. Adult stage
During their nymph stage, they are completely red. As they grow older, their bodies turn black-brown. It is only these fully grown insects that cause us trouble.
They usually live for about a year, but if they get lost in the warmth of a house during the winter, they only live for a few days.
How do you know if you have Boxelder Bugs in your home?
You don't need to do any major testing to find out if these insects are in your home. Just look for these signs.
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Seeing grown insects | This is the main sign. Even if you see one or two animals inside the house, it means that there are many more animals gathered somewhere nearby (often in a crack in the wall or near a window). |
| Brown spots | Their feces can cause small brown stains to appear on surfaces such as white walls, curtains, carpets, and window sills. |
| Herding | Especially on cold days, you can see them gathering in their thousands on the outside walls of houses and on rocks that receive plenty of sunlight. This is the time when they are looking for places to enter the house. |
Are these insects harmful to our health?
Here you can find relief. Boxelder bugs do not pose a serious threat or harm to our health. They do not transmit diseases.
- Bites: There have been very rare reports of them biting people. However, it does not cause much harm and does not require special treatment. However, if you are ever bitten by such an animal and you have even the slightest suspicion about the wound, such as an allergy, you should definitely see your doctor and seek advice.
- Damage to property: The main damage caused by these insects is the stains caused by their feces, as mentioned earlier. Other than that, they do not damage household items. In orchards, they can cause minor damage to fruits.
- Unpleasant odor: The other main problem is the unpleasant odor that comes from crushing them. Therefore, you need to be careful not to crush them when removing them.
How do you control these troublemakers at home?
Controlling these insects is not difficult. Here are some things you can do.
Prevent coming home (Prevention)
This is the best way. Be careful about these things, especially as the winter season approaches.
- Seal gaps in your home: Seal cracks in the foundation, walls, and around where wires and pipes enter the home with cement or a sealant.
- Repair windows and doors: Repair broken window and door screens.
- Install door sweeps under doors: Installing door sweeps under doors that open outwards can reduce the chances of insects entering.
After entering the house (Removal)
If you miss the prevention methods and they come to your home, here's what to do.
- Vacuum: The best and cleanest way is to suck them up with a vacuum cleaner. Then, seal the vacuum bag tightly and throw it in the trash.
- Sweep and remove: Use a broom and dustpan to carefully sweep and collect them, then leave the house.
- Spray with soapy water: Mix a little water and liquid soap in a spray bottle, then spray the mixture directly on the insects. This is a very effective way to kill them, and it's safe for you, your children, and your pets.
- Be careful with pesticides: You need to be very careful when using pesticides. Although there are some pesticides that can be used on the exterior walls of your home, they are not very effective against these insects. Also, if used incorrectly, they can be harmful to you and your family. Therefore, if you use a pesticide, read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly.
The most important thing is not to cut down trees in your garden just because these insects are there. Because they can fly miles away to find other places. Cutting down trees only harms the environment.
Finally, if the problem is too severe to control, you can seek the help of a professional pest removal service.
Take-Home Message
- Boxelder bugs are not insects that carry dangerous diseases, but they are annoying creatures that invade homes.
- They mostly come to homes to seek warmth during the winter and hibernate.
- The best way to keep them away from your home is to seal up cracks and gaps in your home and block their entry points.
- If it enters the house, do not crush it, but sweep it away with a vacuum cleaner.
- Spraying a soapy water mixture is a safe and effective way to kill them.
- If you are in doubt about a rare bite, see your doctor immediately.
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