What To Do If You're Seeing Boxelder Bugs Around Your West Chester Property
June 1, 2023
Boxelder bugs are not harmful to humans or pets, but their presence alone can make them a nuisance. These bugs typically live outdoors and feed on boxelder trees and other plants but may also invade homes in search of warmth during cooler months. If you see boxelder bugs around your property, there are steps you can take to remove them that may provide temporary relief.
For more effective and permanent treatment options, your best option is to contact a boxelder bug control expert. Working with a West Chester pest control company with boxelder bug elimination experience will provide the most effective results.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs in West Chester are common, particularly in the fall. They are named after the boxelder tree, which is one of their preferred host plants, although they also feed on maple and ash trees. Boxelder bugs are black or dark brown in color with distinct red or orange markings on their wings and abdomen, making them easily recognizable. They are about half an inch long with a flattened, oval-shaped body, and their wings lay flat on their backs when not in use. Boxelder bugs feed primarily on the seeds, leaves, and flowers of host plants.
Why A Boxelder Bug Infestation Can Be Problematic
While boxelder bugs do not cause any direct harm to homes or buildings, a boxelder bug infestation can be problematic for a number of reasons. They often congregate in large numbers on the sides of buildings, seeking warmth during the colder months. Boxelder bugs primarily feed on trees, but they can also feed on the fruits and leaves of certain plants, causing crop damage and affecting agricultural yields. When these bugs feed on the sap of trees, they excrete a liquid waste that can stain surfaces, including walls and furniture, that are difficult to remove.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to boxelder bugs, with symptoms that can include redness, itching, and swelling. Boxelder bug removal can be difficult once they have established themselves in a home or other structure, and their presence may require the help of experts to eliminate them from your home.
Factors That Attract Boxelder Bugs To Your Home
Boxelder bugs are attracted to West Chester homes and buildings for several reasons, including:
- The warmth of your home provides a comfortable environment for boxelder bugs to overwinter.
- Boxelder bugs will seek out areas of your home that receive direct sunlight as they use it to regulate their body temperature.
- Moisture is required for these bugs to survive, and they may be attracted to areas of your home that are damp or have standing water.
- The pheromones of other boxelder bugs will act as an attractant and can lead them to gather in large numbers in certain areas of your home.
An experienced local professional will be required to render your home unattractive to boxelder bugs.
Call The Pros To Get Rid Of A Boxelder Bug Infestation
Master Touch Pest Solutions is a professional pest control company that specializes in the control of various pests and performs boxelder bug treatments. Additionally, it's important to understand that pest control is an ongoing process, and regular maintenance by the pros will ensure your West Chester home remains pest-free. Our family-owned business has served the West Chester area since 1991. Our service technicians are highly trained and committed to customer service excellence, and our innovative treatment technologies are safe for families and pets.
Contact us today, to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in West Chester.
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