Box Elder Bugs / Elm Leaf Beetles
The box elder bug (Boisea trivittata) is a black and red insect. In all stages it is approx. 3/8” long. They are good flyers in the adult stage. The elm leaf beetle (Xanthogaleruca Pyrrhalta luteola) is black and yellow, approximately 1/4 inch long, and the larval stage feeds on elm trees.
Box Elder Bug / Elm Leaf Beetle Biology & Habits
These insects are invaders of structures. Elm leaf beetles may be found during the summer months; however, both the adult box elder bug and elm leaf beetle will accumulate in large numbers inside the structure during the fall and will hibernate in wall voids or attics. They will become active in warm winter days or early spring. Elm leaf beetles feed on elm trees and are more common throughout the Midwest. In all stages of the box elder bug, this bug feeds on elder trees and other related species (such as Maple). Only the adults can fly. Neither will breed inside structures.
Questions To Ask About Box Elder Bugs / Elm Leaf Beetles
- Have you had this problem before?
- Have there been treatments for these before?
- Where have you seen them?
Box Elder Bug / Elm Leaf Beetle Inspection Tips
Look outside the structure around windows and in crack and crevices along eaves, doors and entryways on the sunny side of the stareas, along cracks, crevices and baseboards.
