Most people know about common household bugs like cockroaches, silverfish, and spiders. But what about the elm seed bug and boxelder bug? These two bugs are often mistaken for one another, but they have some key differences. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these two bugs and compare them in order to help you tell them apart. We’ll also discuss some of the habits and behaviors of each bug so you can identify them if you see them around your home.
Differences Between Elm Seed Bugs and Box Elder Bugs
There are a few critical differences between elm seed bugs and box elder bugs:
1. Appearance – Elm seed bugs have alternating red and black patterns outside the wings with a red abdomen. Adults are ¼ to ⅓ of an inch long. Box elder bugs are also minor, but they have black with reddish or orange markings on their dorsum. Adults are approximately ½ inch long. Box Elder bugs’ body shape resembles a flattened and elongated oval.
2. Location – Elm seed bugs are found on elm trees, as the name suggests. They also like to live in areas with many trees, such as forests. Box elder bugs, on the other hand, are more likely to be found near box elder trees (hence the name). However, they can also be found on other trees, such as maple and ash.
3. Diet – Elm seed bugs primarily eat elm seeds, but they will also feed on the tree’s leaves. Box elder bugs are not as particular about their diet and will provide various things, including leaves, flowers, and fruits.
4. Life Cycle – Elm seed bugs are insects that can live for five years, so you’ll have to take care of an infestation when it’s not managed correctly. If left unchecked, these pests will fester and become even more significant problems! Box elder bugs only live for one year.
5. Behavior – Elm seed bugs are not a problem for the health of elm trees, but they can be pesky pests similar to boxelder bugs. They enter homes and buildings in springtime or late summer/fall when it’s warm enough outside that these insects come looking for food! Unlike box elder bugs, elm seed bugs can release an almond-scented fluid from their scent glands when irritated at close range
What Do Elm Seed and Boxelder Bugs Have In Common?
There are a few key similarities between elm seed bugs and box elder bugs:
1. These tiny pests can easily fit through cracks and crevices in homes.
2. Both of these bugs are related to the stink bug, which has scent glands and puts off a horrible smell when squished.
3. Elm seed bugs and boxelder bugs can be pesky, but they’re not dangerous. Fortunately for homeowners, these pests don’t carry any venom or bite, so you’ll never need to worry about your family getting bitten by them!
4. These pesky pests typically do not cause damage to structures. However, their feces can stain walls and curtains with an unpleasant odor – not only is this unattractive, but it’s also unhealthy for you.
5. They prefer to dwell in building cracks, crevices, and leaf litter.
How to Get Rid of Elm Seed Bugs and Boxelder Bugs?
If you’ve found these pests in your home, don’t panic! Both elm seed bugs and box elder bugs can be removed with a few simple steps:
1. The first step is to identify where they’re coming from. If you see them near windows or doors, check to see if any cracks or gaps need to be sealed.
2. Once you’ve sealed up their entry points, the next step is to vacuum them up. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag immediately after so they don’t escape and end up right back where you started!
3. If you have a lot of these pests, you may need to call a professional pest control company to help you get rid of them.
4. You can also try using insecticidal sprays or baits to eliminate elm seed bugs and box elder bugs. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, so you don’t end up harming yourself or your family.
Elm seed bugs and box elder bugs can be pesky pests, but they’re not dangerous. You can get rid of them and keep them from coming back with a little effort!
However, if you think you have an infestation of either of these pests, it’s important to contact a professional pest control company right away. They will be able to identify the bug and determine the best course of action to eliminate them.