Fall’s coming & so are these smelly bugs. See how to keep them out of your MS Coast home
It’s almost time to wave goodbye to summer and with it, scorching hot days, sweaty clothes and pesky bugs.
Well, maybe not that last part because some bugs will be sticking around and seeking shelter in your homes well into the fall.
Specifically, boxelder bugs. Here’s what to know about the pest and how to keep them out of your home this fall.
What are boxelder bugs?
Boxelder bugs are named after the boxelder tree, where the bugs primarily live. The bugs are small and their bodies are black with some red markings. They are about half an inch in size, flat and oval, and have six legs. Although they mostly stay to themselves, boxelder bugs start to come out in the fall because they are looking for a longtime shelter for the winter.
According to Ja-Roy Pest Control, boxelder bugs love to sunbathe on rocks to warm themselves and they typically feed on leaves, flowers and maple or ash trees.
Do they bite or cause damage?
Boxelder bugs do not normally bite, but there have been a few reports of “defensive biting.” The bugs are simply a nuisance and can emit a nasty odor when smashed.
According to the professionals at Ja-Roy Pest Control, boxelder bugs can sometimes leave marks behind if smashed because their feces stains some surfaces.
How can you keep them out of your Mississippi home?
If you find these bugs in your home, don’t panic. Here are some tips from the experts:
Seal Entry Points
“These insects are attracted to warmth and sunlight, so they often congregate on the sunny side of buildings, particularly on south or west-facing walls. Additionally, they may seek shelter in cracks, crevices, and gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations,” said experts at Monitor Pest Control.
Remove Attractants
Keep your landscaping tidy and remove any brush or overgrown plants.
Use barriers
Using mesh covers for cracks or screens for windows will also help cut down on these bugs entering your home.
Wash your house
Wash the outside of your home with water. Boxelder bugs can’t swim and will drown.
Use these scents
Boxelder bugs hate the scent of mums, so planting them around entry points is a good way to get the bugs to stay away.
The bugs also don’t like the smell of citrus and certain herbs like sage, cloves and lavender.
Have any questions? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
