There’s no doubt about it, spring has finally arrived in the Greater Toronto Area. With warmer temperatures and the buds starting to come out on trees, you can finally put your snow blower away. But spring brings out more than just buds on the trees and warmer temperatures, it’s a time when many different types of pests and wildlife come out of hibernation. If you’re noticed swarms of black and red bugs in or around your home, you’re likely dealing with boxelder bugs.
Boxelder bugs get their common name because they are found primarily on boxelder trees, which are a species of maple trees that are quite common in Canada. While they prefer to live on boxelder trees, they are also attracted to other types of maple and ash trees.
Boxelder bugs diet mainly consists of maple tree seeds and dew and sap of other plants. They don’t bite people or animals, nor do they damage other plants, so they’re more of an annoyance than a danger.
The strength of the seasons plays a huge role in the boxelder bug populations. Colder winters are more damaging to the population. The past couple of winters here in the GTA haven’t been that cold so boxelder bugs seem to be out in greater numbers over the past couple of years.
Boxelder bugs prefer a warmer environment, so they hibernate in the winter and emerge when the warm weather of the spring arrives.
They love basking in the sun, which is why you’ll find large clusters of boxelder bugs when the sun is shining brightly and the temperatures are warm.
If the temperature dips quickly – which is very common during the early weeks of spring – boxelder bugs will seek warmth, often heading into people’s homes during the cold spell.
If you have maple or ash trees around your property, you’re more likely to encounter boxelder bugs. The best treatment for controlling boxelder bugs is to spray the trees where they are laying their eggs during the spring months. Eliminating the eggs during the spring will mean fewer boxelder bugs through the summer and fall.
You’ll need powerful sprayers and strong chemicals to do an effective job of getting rid of boxelder bugs, so it’s best to leave it to professionals that have the right equipment and use the proper chemicals.
Properly sealing your home is the best way to keep them from getting inside. They’re not intentionally trying to get inside your home looking for food or a place to lay eggs, they’re just looking for warmth. Sealing window frames, door entries and cracks in the foundation of your house are all good ways to keep boxelder bugs outside.
If you do find boxelder bugs inside your home, we can apply a spray treatment to deter any more of them from coming inside. Simply remove any bugs that you do find inside, remembering that they won’t do any damage. Try not to squish them because, with their bright red or orange colour, they can leave a mark on lighter coloured furniture, walls or floors, but that’s about as serious as any damage they can do gets.
If you’ve got boxelder bugs on your property and you want them gone, it’s best to bring in a professional. Pest Protection Plus offers professional pest and wildlife control services, including getting rid of boxelder bugs. We offer fast, 24×7 service and we guarantee our results for up to three months.
Or, if you want peace of mind and not have to worry about getting rid of boxelder bugs or any other pests before they become an issue, think about getting our Pest Guard Home Protection Plan.
Trust the experts at Pest Protection Plus, and always remember …
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