Do you notice beetle-looking insects on the side of your Chicago area home every fall season? You’re not alone! Stink bugs and boxelder bugs are two common fall invaders in our region. These insects are known for a couple of things. One, the foul odor they release when crushed or threatened. And two, their odd behavior of aggregating on the sides of buildings and structures in the fall months. Their populations can grow to large numbers, which is why so many people worry when they see them. While they can be an eye-sore outdoors, they’re even more troublesome when they crawl inside your property. Keep reading to learn all about these pests from the experts at Anderson Pest Solutions.
Boxelder & Stink Bugs in the Midwest
Boxelder bugs have dark brown bodies with interesting red marks. True to their name, they feed off of and live in boxelder, ash, and maple trees. They emerge out of hibernation in the springtime. Their feces can leave a stain. While very rare, boxelder bugs have been proven to bite or pierce the skin in defense using their mouthparts. They only live for up to a week, but their populations are very large.
Stink bugs arrived from Asia in the 1980s, and have caused tremendous destruction of local crops. Their backs look like shields, and they can blend easily within foliage. There are two main types we see in the states: the brown marmorated stink bug and the green stink bug. Besides being a nuisance, stink bugs are of no harm to humans. However, their rapid rate of reproduction is troublesome.
How to Keep Fall Invaders Out
As you would with any type of pest, it’s important to learn how to prevent boxelder bugs and stink bugs. These insects will crawl inside in the fall, making it crucial to seal your home against them. Our top tips include:
- Replace torn screens on windows and doors or install brand-new ones.
- Consider using low-pressure sodium exterior lighting, as UV rays attract these bugs.
- Keep your yard clean and trimmed. Cut back tree limbs around the perimeter of the home.
- Seal cracks or holes around windows, doors, soffits, and basements.
- Reinforce the caulking around your windows and vents.
Need Fall Pest Control?
If these insects make their way inside your home before you have a chance to prevent them, it’s important to get help from a professional. The residential exterminators at Anderson Pest Solutions can help get these bugs out as well as keep them from ever getting indoors again. Contact us today to learn more about our boxelder bug and stink bug control.
