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Box Elder Bugs in Kansas City: Why They Show Up and What to Do
Black bugs with red lines are piling up on your sunny wall. Sound familiar?
Those are box elder bugs. If you live in Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood or anywhere around Kansas City, you have probably seen them. The good news? They are a nuisance, not a danger.
What are box elder bugs?
Box elder bugs are about half an inch long. They are black with red or orange lines on their backs. They feed on box elder, maple and ash trees. Those trees are common in Kansas City yards and parks.
Why are they on my house?
Think of a bus stop on a cold morning. Everyone crowds into the one sunny spot. Box elder bugs do the same thing. In fall, they look for warmth. The south and west walls of your home heat up first, so that is where they gather. Then they look for tiny gaps to slip inside and wait out winter.
Do box elder bugs bite or hurt my home?
No. They do not bite people or pets. They do not damage your house. They can leave small stains if you crush them, and they can give off a sharp smell.
When are box elder bugs the worst in Kansas City?
Late summer through fall, when they swarm on warm walls.
Warm winter days, when some wake up inside walls.
Early spring, when they head back outside to the trees.
What can you do today?
Seal gaps. Check around windows, doors, siding and utility lines.
Fix screens. Patch any tears or loose edges.
Vacuum them up. Do not crush them. Vacuuming keeps stains and smell away.
Trim back. Keep branches and debris from touching your house.
Why do they keep coming back?
The trees nearby do not go away, so new bugs can show up each fall. That is why the best fix is at the source. Bug Shockers treats the outside walls, gaps and entry spots where they gather. We also tell you what to watch for.
Need help in Overland Park, Olathe or Leawood?
We are a local, family-owned company with no contracts and a 5.0-star rating on Google. Not sure what you have? Text a clear photo to (913) 222-2847. We can usually tell you what it is and what to do next.
Learn more on our Overland Park box elder bug control page. Want the full story for Kansas? Read our box elder bug guide. For other pests, see our general pest control page.
Quick FAQ
Are box elder bugs dangerous? No. They do not bite and they do not harm your home.
Why are there so many in fall? They gather on warm walls and look for places to spend winter.
Will vacuuming help? Yes. It is the cleanest way to remove them indoors.
Do I need a contract? Never.
Bug Shockers: The Shockingly Smart Choice.
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