Wondering what eats boxelder bugs when these distinctive red-and-black pests start gathering on your home’s sunny sides? You’re not alone. These half-inch insects can become a real nuisance, especially in the fall when they seek warmth and shelter in your house by the hundreds. While boxelder bugs don’t damage structures, they certainly create headaches with their sheer numbers and the foul odor they emit when crushed. Fortunately, nature provides several solutions in your own backyard. Rodents like mice and chipmunks, certain spiders, and praying mantises all consume these pests, though they can’t always control large infestations. Your backyard birds might help too, and if you’re raising chickens, ducks, or guinea hens, you’ll be pleased to know these feathered friends can make a significant dent in the boxelder bug population.
Why boxelder bugs are a tough snack
Boxelder bugs might seem like an easy meal for hungry predators, but these insects have evolved some impressive survival tactics. Despite their abundance in many North American yards, most wildlife gives these red and black bugs a wide berth. Let’s explore why these common pests remain largely off the menu for backyard wildlife.
Their chemical defenses
Ever squashed a boxelder bug and noticed that unpleasant smell? That’s their primary defense mechanism in action. These insects produce a distinctly foul-tasting excretion when chewed or crushed that immediately signals “bad food” to potential predators. This chemical cocktail isn’t poisonous but creates such an unpleasant experience that most animals quickly learn to avoid them.
Furthermore, boxelder bugs have another chemical trick up their sleeves. When they form those characteristic sun-basking aggregations on walls and trees, they actually release an odorous blend of monoterpenes onto their bodies. Research shows these chemicals serve as a form of natural sanitizer, inhibiting fungal pathogens that might otherwise infect them during overwintering.
Warning colors that deter predators
The distinctive red markings on boxelder bugs aren’t just for show. Those bright red lines behind their heads, red veins in their wings, and red abdomens function as a universal warning sign in the animal kingdom. This coloration strategy, known as aposematism, essentially broadcasts “I taste terrible!” to potential predators.
In fact, this bright warning coloration explains why boxelder bugs often gather in large crowds in plain sight, unlike most insects that work hard to stay hidden. Their bold appearance serves as a clear signal to predators that these insects should be avoided, a message reinforced by any animal unfortunate enough to ignore the warning.
Why most animals avoid eating boxelder bugs
The combination of chemical defenses and warning coloration creates a highly effective protection system. Most birds and mammals quickly learn to associate the red-and-black pattern with the unpleasant taste. Even household pets that might chase and catch a boxelder bug quickly regret it—dogs and cats may salivate excessively or even vomit after tasting one, though the bugs aren’t actually harmful to them.
Additionally, the bugs’ distinctive odor provides a first warning before a predator even makes contact. This multifaceted defense strategy explains why natural population control of boxelder bugs remains challenging—the creatures have simply mastered the art of being unappetizing.
Backyard animals that eat boxelder bugs
Despite their chemical defenses, several creatures in your yard will still eat boxelder bugs, although most do so reluctantly and in limited numbers. Let’s explore which backyard predators might help you manage these pesky insects naturally.
Rodents: occasional consumers
Small mammals like mice, rats, and chipmunks will consume boxelder bugs when hunger strikes. However, these rodents are opportunistic feeders who generally prefer tastier alternatives. They’ll only turn to boxelder bugs when more desirable food sources are unavailable [1]. Given that rodents themselves can become household pests, they’re not the ideal solution for controlling boxelder bug populations.
Spiders and assassin bugs
Spiders rank among the most reliable boxelder bug predators. Wolf spiders and grass spiders particularly enjoy these insects, with documented cases of spiders capturing, injecting venom into, and consuming boxelder bugs [2]. If you spot spider webs near boxelder bug congregations, consider leaving them intact as natural pest control [1].
The praying mantis and wheel bug (also called assassin bug) are equally formidable hunters. The wheel bug—named for the cog-like structure on its back—uses a specialized hunting technique, injecting its prey with enzyme-laden saliva that immobilizes the victim before sucking out its bodily fluids [1]. These predatory insects are beneficial garden residents that help control many pest species beyond just boxelder bugs [3].
Do birds eat boxelder bugs?
Birds have a complicated relationship with boxelder bugs. Some sources suggest robins and sparrows occasionally eat them [4], yet research indicates most birds actively avoid them due to their defensive chemicals [5]. One study noted robins, blackbirds, thrashers, and sparrows specifically avoided feeding on boxelder bugs [5]. Even when birds do consume them, it’s typically in small quantities and only when preferred foods are scarce.
Can chickens and ducks help?
Backyard poultry can potentially assist with boxelder bug control, albeit with limitations. Chickens and ducks will consume boxelder bugs, making up about 10-15% of their insect diet [1]. However, many chickens learn to avoid these insects due to their unpleasant taste [6][7]. One poultry keeper noted: “Heaven knows how many times I’ve stood by my coops, imploring my birds to please eat the box-elder bugs” [6].
Guinea hens show more promise—these “wild chickens” maintain a diet comprised of about 90% insects and might help naturally control boxelder bugs in rural settings [1]. Nevertheless, even poultry species avoid these insects when other food sources are available.
How to attract natural predators to your yard
Encouraging natural boxelder bug control starts with creating the right environment for their predators. Since natural enemies like spiders and birds need proper habitat to thrive, transforming your yard into a predator-friendly space offers a sustainable solution to pest problems without harsh chemicals.
Create a bird-friendly garden
Birds can help manage your boxelder bug population if you provide what they need. Start by planting native trees such as oaks, willows, birches, and maples that host caterpillars—a vital protein source for nesting birds. Include native sunflowers, asters, and coneflowers that produce tiny seeds favored by finches and sparrows. Don’t deadhead all flowering plants; those seedheads become crucial food sources during fall and winter.
For maximum effectiveness, create larger habitat patches with lawn pathways rather than the typical small garden beds surrounded by expanses of lawn. This creates a richer wildlife habitat and more attractive yard design simultaneously.
Avoid pesticides that harm beneficial insects
Pesticides often kill helpful predators alongside the pests you’re targeting. More than 90% of pollen samples from beehives in agricultural areas contain multiple pesticides. These chemicals affect beneficial insects that would otherwise help control boxelder bugs.
Instead of chemical solutions, try:
- Soapy water sprays for targeted pest control
- Hand-weeding instead of herbicides
- Maintaining diverse plantings that naturally balance pest populations
Leave some leaf litter for spiders
Leaf litter provides crucial overwintering habitat for spiders and predatory insects that hunt boxelder bugs. Research shows fallen leaves in orchards offer suitable overwintering microhabitat for predatory arthropods that contribute to biological pest control.
Allow leaves to remain under trees and shrubs, especially through winter. This natural mulch reduces unwanted weed growth while providing shelter for insects and spiders that will help control pests when temperatures rise.
Why native plants matter
Native plants attract significantly more predatory insects than non-native varieties. Plants featuring clusters of small flowers, like goldenrod and mountain mint, excel at attracting beneficial insects that prey on pests. Native perennials with diverse bloom times ensure predatory insects have nectar and pollen sources throughout the growing season.
Consider including native species like Zizia, Eupatoriums, Eryngium, Coreopsis and Asters in your landscape. These plants not only beautify your yard but also support the complete lifecycle of beneficial predators, from egg to adult.
What to do when predators aren’t enough for a boxelder bug infestation
Sometimes natural predators just aren’t enough to handle a serious boxelder bug infestation. After trying to attract beneficial insects and birds to your yard, you might need to take more direct action, especially when bugs start moving indoors. Fortunately, you have several effective options before calling in professionals.
Use soapy water sprays
When boxelder bugs congregate on exterior walls or windows, a simple soap spray offers an effective, non-toxic solution. The soap breaks down the bugs’ waxy protective coating, causing them to dehydrate and die.
To make your own spray:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap with 1 gallon of water
- Pour into a garden sprayer or spray bottle
- Apply directly to bug clusters when temperatures exceed 50°F
This solution works best on sunny days when bugs are actively warming themselves. Spray in the morning for maximum effectiveness, focusing on south-facing walls where they typically gather. Subsequently, rinse the areas with clean water to prevent soap residue from damaging paint or finishes.
Seal up cracks and entry points
Preventing boxelder bugs from entering your home requires thorough inspection and sealing. Check window frames, door sweeps, foundation cracks, and utility penetrations for openings.
Fall represents the ideal time for this work as temperatures drop and bugs seek winter shelter. Use silicone caulk for small gaps and expanding foam for larger openings. Accordingly, install or repair weatherstripping around doors and windows to create effective barriers against entry.
Remember to check screens for tears or holes, particularly on south and west-facing windows where bugs typically congregate. Eventually, these prevention measures will reduce indoor infestations significantly.
When to call a professional
Consider professional pest control services when:
- Bugs repeatedly return despite DIY efforts
- Infestations involve hundreds of bugs daily
- You discover large indoor overwintering colonies
- Your home has inaccessible entry points you cannot seal
Professional exterminators primarily use residual insecticides and specialized equipment to treat exterior walls and entry points. They can also identify and treat nearby boxelder trees—the insects’ primary host plant—which might be the source of your ongoing problem.
Finally, professionals can recommend long-term strategies for keeping boxelder bugs away, including tree management and landscaping adjustments that make your property less attractive to these seasonal pests.
Conclusion: Managing boxelder bugs requires a multi-pronged approach
Despite their impressive defense mechanisms, boxelder bugs aren’t invincible. Though most predators find these red-and-black insects unappetizing, your backyard still contains allies in the ongoing battle against these seasonal pests. Spiders, assassin bugs, and wheel bugs rank among your most reliable helpers, while birds and backyard poultry might occasionally pitch in when other food sources become scarce.
Nevertheless, natural predators alone rarely solve a significant boxelder bug problem. Your best strategy combines multiple approaches for effective management. First, create a wildlife-friendly yard that supports beneficial predators through native plantings and reduced pesticide use. Subsequently, tackle any infestations directly with targeted methods like soapy water sprays before bugs move indoors. Last but not least, seal your home against invasion by addressing entry points that allow these persistent insects access to your living spaces.
Remember that timing matters considerably when dealing with boxelder bugs. Fall represents your critical opportunity to prevent indoor invasions, while spring and summer offer ideal conditions for enhancing natural predator populations.
Additionally, consider the presence of boxelder trees on your property. Since these trees serve as the insects’ primary food source and breeding ground, managing or removing them might significantly reduce your seasonal bug problems. Undoubtedly, a comprehensive approach that combines habitat modification, natural predator encouragement, and targeted interventions will provide the most effective long-term solution to your boxelder bug challenges.
What Eats Boxelder Bugs: FAQs
Q1. What are the main predators of boxelder bugs?
The primary predators of boxelder bugs include spiders (especially wolf spiders and grass spiders), assassin bugs, and wheel bugs. Some rodents like mice and chipmunks may occasionally eat them, but they generally prefer other food sources.
Q2. Why don’t most animals eat boxelder bugs?
Boxelder bugs have evolved effective defense mechanisms. They produce a foul-tasting chemical when crushed, and their distinctive red and black coloration serves as a warning to potential predators. These factors make them unappetizing to most animals.
Q3. Can chickens or ducks help control boxelder bug populations?
While chickens and ducks may consume boxelder bugs, they typically make up only a small portion of their diet (about 10-15% of insect consumption). Many chickens learn to avoid these insects due to their unpleasant taste, limiting their effectiveness as a control method.
Q4. How can I attract natural predators to my yard to help with boxelder bugs?
To attract natural predators, create a wildlife-friendly yard by planting native species, avoiding pesticides, and leaving some leaf litter for spiders. Include plants with small flower clusters like goldenrod and mountain mint to attract beneficial insects that prey on pests.
Q5. What natural methods can I use to control boxelder bugs?
You can use a soapy water spray directly on bug clusters, which breaks down their protective coating. Sealing cracks and entry points around your home can prevent infestations. For severe cases, consider professional pest control services that can apply targeted treatments and provide long-term management strategies.
References
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[1] – https://www.sciencing.com/eats-boxelder-bugs-8528486/
[2] – https://www.cambridgeincolour.com/forums/thread55502.htm
[3] – https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/assassin-bugs
[4] – https://www.altapestcontrol.com/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-boxelder-bugs
[5] – https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/landscape/fact-sheets/boxelder-bug
[6] – https://www.hobbyfarms.com/insects-chicken-coops-infest-beetles-bugs/
[7] – https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/do-chickens-eat-bugs-poultry-as-organic-pest-control
