Every fall, there are two bugs in particular that come out in full force in the Atlanta area: boxelder bugs and stink bugs! These fall invaders are inclined to seek out a place to overwinter. They often find shelter on the sides of buildings as the days become shorter. They most often congregate on south- and west-facing walls where they can enjoy more sunlight. This may be a nuisance, but it can become a real problem when the bugs attempt to enter your home. Neither boxelder bugs or stink bugs are dangerous, but they’re still a pain to deal with when they get indoors. Keep reading to learn about these fall invaders and what you can do to keep them out.

What Are Boxelder Bugs?

Boxelder bugs have dark brown bodies with unique red markings. They can release a strong odor when threatened. These bugs prefer to feed and live in boxelder, ash, and maple trees. They will also infest trees or plants with plums, grapes, pears, peaches, cherries, apples, and almonds. When the weather gets colder every fall, these bugs will take advantage of any available crack and crevice in your home’s exterior to gain access to the warmth of your home. Both adult stink and boxelder bugs will search for cracks and holes in walls, in window trim and molding, and in your foundation.

Are Stink Bugs Dangerous?

Stink bugs arrived from Asia in the 1980s, and have caused tremendous destruction of local crops. Their backs look like shields, and they can blend easily within foliage. If threatened, these bugs release an odor. There are two main types we see in the states: the brown marmorated stink bug and the green stink bug. Besides being a nuisance, stink bugs are of no harm to humans. They will, however, multiply and feed without stopping, making them a serious environmental threat.

How to Prevent Fall Invader Pests

To keep the bugs on the side of your home out of the interior of your home, exclusion is the key! Our top tips to prevent these fall invaders include: 

1. Clean out any debris around the foundation of the house.
2. Trim back trees and bushes to keep all vegetation away from the perimeter of the home.
3. Clean and repair the corners of fences, decorative rocks, old piles of wood, and patio furniture.
4. Replace torn screens on windows and doors.
5. Check the caulk around the molding of the windows and vents.
6. Repair any cracks in stucco and bricks.
7. Seal up cracks around roof soffits, windows, siding, and foundation.
8. Consider using low-pressure sodium exterior lighting, as UV rays attract the insects.

When to Get an Exterminator for Stink Bugs & Boxelder Bugs

If you have hoards of these fall invaders inside your home, it can be difficult to completely get rid of them. A professional pest control expert such as Active Pest Control can help. Call our team today for more information!