these bugs are so annoying one time in the morning one was in my hair and i went nuts because it was buzzing , thats when i realized that they fly.
Boxelder bugs by: Moni
Boxelder bugs do not live in the soil.
Boxelder bugs overwinter as adults and in spring leave the hibernating locations under piles of boards, rocks, leaves, grass and other debris close to the house. Females begin laying eggs in crevices of tree bark, stones, leaves, grasses and on other objects near boxelder trees. Bright-red nymphs appear about the same time new tree leaves develop.
Boxelder bugs feed primarily on the seed-bearing boxelder trees by sucking sap from the leaves, tender twigs and developing seeds. They do little damage to boxelder trees. There can be one to two generations per year.
Control measures in yards and gardens are best handled by prevention. Since boxelder bugs feed and reproduce on seed producing (female) boxelder trees, remove these trees, especially around the house, and/or planting male trees would eliminate nuisance populations. Adults can fly 2 or more miles to hibernate. Eliminate possible hiding places such as any boards, rocks, leaves, grass and other debris close to the house. Rake leaves and grass away from the foundation, especially on the south and west sides of the house. Be sure to caulk and close off any openings where boxelder bugs could enter the house. Screen all windows, doors, crawl spaces, exhaust and roof vents and louvers.
In fall when clusters of the bugs are seen, either vacuum with a shop vac or carefully pour boiling water over them.
Box Elder Beetle by: Sheila (Westport, ON)
As I understand it the tree they are primarily attracted to is the Manitoba maple (also called the Box Elder). I made the big mistake once of spraying for them on my Manitoba maple in Caledonia (there was a huge patch on the trunk) and they only just dispersed including onto my nice warm front porch (!!). I believe they live in the soil and come up onto the tree when it gets sunny (for the warmth). Your best bet, I think, is to just ignore them. They don't seem to do the tree any damage and it's sure a lot better having them stay there than coming to the house.
Boxelder bugs by: Moni
You have boxelder bugs. And I assume that since you are in Michigan that you have a problem with them inside the house?
These insects feed primarily on boxelder trees and some other maples. Then in the fall the adults seem to collect on the south side of our homes and find a way to get in. They do not do any damage to anything in the house. They are just a nusiance!
The best way to get rid of them is to vacuum them as you see them. As we get a few warm days they seem to be more active.
They will eventually die indoors.
Hope that helps.
