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An insect species that can easily be identified is the box elder bug “Boisea trivittata.” The overwintering pest spends most of the winter season in hibernation. The insect prefers spending hibernation indoors than outdoors, exposed to frigid cold temperatures, snow, sleet, and icy winds.
The characteristics of the box elder bug include three sets of black, elbow-shaped legs, two black antennas, red bulgy eyes, and an elongated body shape. The wings are solid black, with a bright reddish/orange outline. The adult grows up to 0.5 inches in length.
Why Have Box Elder Bugs Infested My Cherry Trees?
The box elder bug is a social species that live in colonies. The number can range from a few dozen to hundreds in a single colony. Box elder bugs targeted your cherry trees because they fill their dietary needs and preferences. The insects feed on cherry tree seeds and leaves. They also feed on the seeds of maple and ash trees.
Are Box Elder Bugs Harmful To Humans?
No, box elder bugs are not known to spread diseases to humans or animals. The insect’s most notable feature besides its coloration is its foul smell. Small glands generate a secretion that most people find unappealing. The secretion not only smells pungent but also stains furniture, clothing, upholstery, and other surfaces.
What Treatment Is Recommended For Box Elder Bug Infestation?
As previously mentioned, a box elder bug colony can have hundreds of members. The larger the colony, the more complex the treatment. We recommend professional pest control to treat large box elder bug infestations. We combine traps and insecticides to completely wipe out a colony in less than three visits.
Does DIY Pesticide Work To Eradicate Box Elder Bugs?
Yes, but only if the colony consists of no more than a few dozen members. Over-the-counter pesticide formulas are limited to standard strength. This may or may not be powerful enough to fully eradicate a colony of box elder bugs.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Technician To My Home?
We can process your pest management service request within 24 and 48 hours in most cases. Call our local office to submit your free inspectio request.
Should I Be Concerned About Pesticide Safety?
Absolutely, you should be concerned about the dangers of pesticides. Traditional insecticides utilize chemicals that can eradicate box elder bugs on contact. However, this does not come without some risks. Unskilled and inexperienced handlers may not know how to administer pesticides properly.
Do not hesitate to contact our office to speak with a pest control specialist. We will gladly put your mind to ease and answer all your pesticide safety questions.
Is There An Effective Prevention For Box Elder Bugs?
Yes, but we recommend a custom pest control strategy for this purpose. Routine inspections, education, and home improvements, such as sealing off all access points.
Our technicians will set down with you and your family to discuss a prevention plan. No home is fully protected from box elder bugs. When these insects emerge from hibernation, they are aggressive. Even worse is when they prepare to enter hibernation.
If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.
Our Service Area
Votaw, Navasota, Thicket, Washington, Pierce, Van Vleck, Romayor, Glen Flora, Batson, Lane City, Wharton, Sweeny, Devers, Hull, Pledger, Lake Jackson, Old Ocean, Daisetta, Clute, Hungerford, Hempstead, Boling, Dobbin, Sealy, Willis, Hankamer, Hardin, Plantersville, Port Bolivar, Danciger, East Bernard, Raywood, Galveston, West Columbia, San Felipe, Cleveland, Kendleton, Prairie View , Wallis, Montgomery , Liberty, Anahuac, Angleton , Guy, Wallisville, Beasley, Waller, Pattison, Damon, Simonton, Orchard, Needville, Brookshire, Danbury, La Marque, Hitchcock, Dayton, Magnolia, Splendora, Hockley, Texas City, Pinehurst, Fulshear, Liverpool, Rosenberg, New Caney, Mont Belvieu, Santa Fe, Conroe , Bacliff, Dickinson, Tomball, Hufsmith, Richmond, Kemah, Huffman, Alvin, Porter, League City, Baytown, Seabrook, Thompsons, Cypress, Rosharon, Katy, Spring, Crosby, Webster, Barker, La Porte, Highlands, Friendswood, Manvel, Sugar Land, Fresno, Deer Park, Stafford, Channelview, Humble, Alief, Pearland, Missouri City, Pasadena, North Houston, Galena Park, Bellaire
Zip Codes We Service
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