Learn whether boxelder bugs pose real threats to your Nisswa home and how to keep these nuisance pests under control.
Some bugs are known to be harmful and pose health risks. For example, cockroaches can spread a variety of bacteria and trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Ticks are also a serious concern, as they can transmit diseases like Lyme disease through their bites. Wasps, while helpful pollinators, are another threat since their stings can be painful or even life-threatening for those with severe allergies. But what about boxelder bugs? These pests are a common sight in Minnesota, especially during the fall when they try to find warmth inside homes. While they may look alarming and often appear in large numbers, boxelder bugs are not considered dangerous to humans or pets. They don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases. However, they can become a serious nuisance when they invade in large numbers and stain walls or curtains with their waste. Proper pest control helps prevent an infestation before it becomes a bigger problem.
What is aLinkboxelder bug?
A box elder bug is a black, almond-shaped agricultural bug that has reddish-orange trim around its edges. In summer, these bugs live on trees, mostly boxelder trees, but also maples, where they feast on leaves, seeds and flowers. They are known to eat fruit as well. But when fall comes creeping in, these bugs will look for a warm place to spend the winter. First, they will congregate on the sunny sides of buildings. But, as the temps continue to drop, they will look for ways to get inside. And this is when they can become a problem for homeowners.
Are boxelder bugs dangerous?
Generally speaking, boxelder bugs are not dangerous to humans. Although they are able to break the skin with their bite, they have little reason to want to bite humans. They can, however, cause damage to the beauty of your home, or to your belongings. Piles of boxelder bugs upon your window sills and walls are unsightly and, if they manage to get inside your home, their excrement can stain curtains, carpets, upholstery and even clothing.
How can you keep these bugs from entering your
home?
🛑 1. Seal Entry Points
- Inspect and seal cracks around doors, windows, siding, and utility pipes.
- Use silicone or silicone-latex caulk to fill gaps.
- Install or replace door sweeps and weather stripping.
🪟 2. Repair Screens
- Check all window and door screens for holes or tears.
- Patch or replace damaged screens.
- Cover attic vents and soffits with fine mesh if needed.
🧽 3. Reduce Attractants Outdoors
- Boxelder bugs are attracted to warm, sunny surfaces and boxelder, maple, and ash trees.
- Trim trees and shrubs that touch your house.
- If possible, remove female boxelder trees (they produce seeds the bugs feed on).
💡 4. Minimize Exterior Lighting at Night
- Use yellow “bug lights” or keep outdoor lights off when not needed to avoid attracting bugs.
💧 5. Clean Up Debris
- Clear leaf litter, grass clippings, mulch, and stones from around your foundation.
- Bugs hide and breed in these materials.
🧼 6. Wash Surfaces
- Use soapy water to spray and kill any boxelder bugs you see.
- Soap breaks down their outer shell and kills them quickly.
🧹 7. Vacuum, Don’t Squash
- If they get inside, vacuum them up instead of crushing—they release a foul odor and can stain walls or fabrics.
✅ 8. Call Professional Pest Control
- For large infestations or repeat problems, call Adams Pest Control.
- Our team uses targeted treatments that are safe, fast, and effective—especially during peak seasons in spring and fall.
While boxelder bugs may not be dangerous to you personally, they
can be harmful to have on, or inside, your Nisswa home. And they
can be a real hassle to get rid of once they have taken up
residence, especially if they have found their way inside your wall
voids.
If you need assistance keeping boxelder bugs, and other
overwintering pests, out of your home, Adam’s Pest Control can
help. Our QualityPro and GreenPro certified team has a strong track
record for dealing with invasive pests. We are always here to
help.
Image of A Boxelder Bug
Are Boxelder Bugs a Threat?
Boxelder bugs aren’t dangerous, but they can invade in large numbers. Learn how Adams Pest Control safely manages them for homeowners in Nisswa and beyond.
