If you want to deter box elder bugs from living on your Chicago property, it’s important to understand their habits and behaviors. The more familiar you are with these pests, the better your chances of effectively controlling their populations around your home. Read on to learn more about boxelder bugs and Aerex Pest Control’s quality pest control in Chicago.
Why Are Box Elder Bugs Named That?
Boxelder bugs get their name from the trees they inhabit. You can find these bugs around maple and seed-bearing boxelder trees. Boxelder bugs feed on these seeds as well as the developing leaves on the tree’s fruit.
These pests are black with reddish-orange markings on their back. Their elongated bodies are oval-shaped and flat. They measure around ½ an inch and are known for having narrow heads, six legs, and antennae.
You Could Be Accidentally Attracting Box Elder Bugs
Warm areas draw boxelder bugs where they hide for insulation. Around the exterior of the building, you might find them on sunny areas of the structure. They especially are drawn to properties with ample western or southern exposure.
Once they get inside, they follow sources of warmth throughout the home. Windows and sunnier areas of the property often draw them for maximum sunlight exposure.
The good news is that boxelder bugs don’t bite, and they don’t do any real damage to your property. They sometimes stain surfaces with their excrement when there is an ample abundance of it, but that’s pretty much the extent of the consequences. However, they’re still a nuisance to deal with around your home, which is why it’s essential to address your boxelder control needs.
Tips And Tricks To Keep Box Elder Bugs Away
If you want to be proactive in your boxelder bug control efforts, there are some things you can do. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to keep box elder bugs away from your property:
- Block boxelder bug entry spots like windows and door frames, baseboards, window pulleys, etc.
- Install door sweeps around all exterior entrances to prevent entry.
- Remove light fixtures and ceiling fans, replace their base, and seal them tightly.
- Repair holes in window and door screens, or install new ones if you don’t have any screens.
- Replace or seal the cover plate of electrical outlets, switch boxes, heating ducts, and air vents
- Use silicone-latex caulk to seal up any cracks and crevices around the foundation.
- Vacuum any dead boxelder bugs and properly dispose of the vacuum bag.
While being proactive is always beneficial, none of these methods guarantee protection from infestation. The best thing to do is get in touch with the experts for professional boxelder bug control services in Chicago.
Professional Box Elder Bug Control Services In Chicago
It can be tempting to try and deal with your boxelder bug problem on your own, but we don’t recommend that for anyone. When boxelder bugs enter our homes, they tend to hide in the walls, seeking harborage in cracks and crevices for insulation. The risk with trying to target them in wall voids is if you try to kill them, the dead insect bodies attract dermestid beetles.
Also, when you crush a boxelder bug, they produce a strong unpleasant odor. For these reasons, it’s best to leave your boxelder bug control needs to the professionals. Here at Aerex Pest Control, we offer complete boxelder bug solutions that bring your Chicagoland property year-round protection from infestation. Call us today to learn more.