Bettendorf is currently being invaded by boxelder bugs, and they can be a real nuisance! We'll discuss everything you need to know about boxelder bug control: their biology and habits, why they're infecting your house, and how to get rid of them with some expert Bettendorf pest control tips from Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators.
How Did Boxelder Bugs Get Their Name?
These pests got their name from their preferred host plant: the boxelder tree. Boxelder bugs are small, about ½ inch long. They're black with three red or orange stripes on their back. Nymphs (baby boxelder bugs) are smaller and don't have stripes. If you see small, black bugs without the red lines congregating on sunny sides of your house or trees, they're likely baby boxelder bugs on your property.
Boxelder bugs do not bite or sting and they're not poisonous, so there's no need to worry about avoiding boxelder bug bites. However, they can congregate in large numbers and when they invade your home, they can be difficult to get rid of.
What Are Boxelder Bugs Attracted To?
While the bugs do feed on boxelder trees, they're not picky eaters. They'll also feast on maples, ash trees, and fruit trees. In late summer or early fall, when their food sources start to dwindle, they'll look for a place to overwinter. And that's where your house comes in. Boxelder bugs are attracted to the warmth of houses and will often sneak inside through cracks and crevices in the foundation or around windows and doors. Once they're inside, they can be a real nuisance, crawling all over your walls and floors and leaving behind dark stains when squished.
How Long Do Boxelder Bugs Live For?
A boxelder bug goes through three stages in its life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult. The female bugs lay their eggs on leaves, twigs, or branches in late spring or early summer. The eggs hatch a few weeks later, and the nymphs (baby bugs) start to feed. They'll spend the summer feeding on leaves and seeds before maturing into adults in late summer or early fall. Once they mature, they'll start to look for a place to winter. That's when they might sneak into your house. Their lifespan is about one year. In the spring, the adult bugs will emerge from their overwintering spots and start to lay eggs. Then the cycle begins anew.
Why Are Boxelder Bugs Infesting My House And How To Get Rid Of Them?
As we mentioned, boxelder bugs in Bettendorf are attracted to the warmth of houses and will often sneak inside through cracks and crevices in the foundation or around windows and doors.
So how do you get rid of these pesky pests? The best way to prevent an infestation is to seal up any cracks or crevices in your house that might offer them entry.
But if you're already dealing with an infestation, here's how to get rid of boxelder bugs:
Vacuum them up: This is one of the quickest ways to get rid of boxelder bugs. Just be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag afterward so they don't crawl back out!
Use a bug zapper: If you have a bug zapper, you can use it to get rid of a small number of boxelder bugs.
Call a professional: If you're dealing with a severe infestation, it's best to call a professional exterminator to quickly and effectively get rid of the boxelder bugs for you.
As your local Bettendorf pest control experts, we know a thing or two about boxelder bug infestations; we've been providing quality, customized care in the area since 1929. We can help keep your home free from boxelder bugs and other pests. Give us a call today and get started on our effective home pest control and commercial pest control services.