When BOXELDER bugs are a pain, call crane.
Extermination & Control
Crane Pest Solutions’ Approach
Crane offers perimeter treatments to prevent entry and uses safe, targeted insecticides to control large populations outdoors. Indoor treatments focus on safely removing bugs and preventing further intrusion. Routine inspections in late summer and early fall help to prevent major infestations before winter.
Bug Identification
Common Name: Asian Lady Beetles
Scientific Name: Harmonia axyridis
Seasonal Behavior
Most Active: Spring through fall, especially noticeable in late summer and fall.
Behavior: Box Elder Bugs gather in large numbers in the fall, seeking warmth as temperatures drop. They are known for congregating on the sunny side of homes and buildings. During spring and summer, they feed on box elder trees, maple trees, and ash trees.
Minnesota-Specific Climate Impact
Impact of Weather: In Minnesota, these bugs are particularly active in the fall as they prepare for winter by seeking shelter. They often invade homes and buildings as temperatures cool down but become dormant during the coldest months.
Habitat & Entry Points
Habitat: Box Elder Bugs are typically found on or around box elder trees. In fall, they seek out homes, garages, and attics for warmth and protection from the cold.
Entry Points: They enter through cracks around windows, doors, siding, and other small gaps.
Damage & Risks
Damage: Box Elder Bugs don’t cause structural damage or bite, but they can stain walls, curtains, and furniture with their droppings and secretions.
Signs of Infestation: Large clusters of bugs gathering on warm, sunny walls or windows, especially in the fall. Inside, you may find dead or sluggish bugs near windows and doors during winter.
Prevention Tips
Preventive Measures: Seal any cracks or gaps in windows, doors, and siding before the fall. Remove box elder trees near your home if they are a recurring problem.
FACT
Box Elder Bugs are named for their favorite tree, the Box Elder, though they also feed on other maples and ash trees.
myth
Box Elder Bugs don’t bite or sting, despite their large numbers sometimes causing concern.
Contact Us
Crane Pest Solutions is a small locally owned pest control company serving Commercial and Residential properties in SE MN. Where we want to help give you peace of mind through education and services. We have over a decade of experience serving the SE MN area and the issues specific to our area.