Why You’re Seeing More Boxelder Bugs This Fall
Why You’re Seeing More Boxelder Bugs This Fall
As fall temperatures begin to cool, boxelder bugs become one of the most noticeable nuisance pests gathering around homes. These black-and-red insects are often seen sunbathing on exterior walls, siding, patios, window frames, and doors — especially on the south and west sides of homes where the sun hits strongest.
Like stink bugs, Asian lady beetles, and kudzu bugs, boxelder bugs are considered fall invaders, meaning they start trying to move indoors for warmth once cooler weather sets in.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs are easily recognized by their dark bodies with bright red or orange markings. They feed primarily on boxelder trees (hence their name), but can also be found around maple trees and ash. During spring and summer, they typically remain outdoors — but once fall arrives, their behavior changes drastically.
Why They Try to Come Inside in Fall
As temperatures cool, boxelder bugs seek warm protected places to overwinter. Homes offer ideal conditions, especially areas warmed by sunlight. They can slip into small gaps around:
- windows and doors
- siding and rooflines
- foundation cracks
- vents and attic openings
Once inside, they often hide in wall voids, attics, basements, and unused areas of the home until spring weather returns.
Why They Are a Nuisance
Boxelder bugs are not dangerous — they do not bite, sting, or damage structures. However, they are known for gathering in large numbers, and they can stain surfaces when crushed due to their internal pigment. Their presence alone is enough to frustrate homeowners, especially when they start showing up inside throughout late fall and winter.
Prevention Tips for Boxelder Bugs
You can help reduce entry points with simple fall preparation:
- seal cracks and openings around doors, windows, siding, and trim
- fix torn screens and refresh weather stripping
- remove leaf piles and debris near the home foundation
- avoid crushing bugs indoors — vacuum instead
Preventative steps done before temperatures drop significantly are the most effective.
Boxelder Bugs Are Part of the Larger Fall Pest Wave
Along with Kudzu bugs, stink bugs, and Asian lady beetles — boxelder bugs are part of the seasonal fall pest invasion that Tennessee homeowners deal with each year. Once they settle into the home, they can remain inactive but present until spring.
Fall Pest Control Protection with GPM Pest Control
GPM Pest Control provides seasonal fall pest solutions designed to prevent nuisance pests from overwintering in your home. Our treatments create a protective barrier that blocks pests like boxelder bugs before they enter and become a long-term issue.
Serving Chattanooga and surrounding areas — we help homeowners stay comfortable and pest-free all season long.







