BOXELDER BUG

BOXELDER BUG
The Boxelder Bug is more of a nuisance pest than one that does actual damage. As the weather cools in the fall, they seek to enter structures to find an overwintering location. Thousands can enter a building, causing no damage but their presence is very noticeable. They do not reproduce inside structures. Sealing cracks and repairing screens are often all that is needed to correct the situation. Both the nymphs and adults will suck plant juices from new leaves at times, which may cause yellowing or distortion in growth. The adults are black with reddish-orange markings, and about a half inch and oblong in shape.

Life Cycle
Females lay eggs in the crevices of tree bark. The eggs hatch in 10-14 days, and the nymphs feed on foliage and seeds. Nymphs go through five instars and look like small adults. In the winter, adults hibernate and emerge in late April and early May. There can be one or two generations each year.