Jason E. Andersen

Now that the weather is getting cold, you have probably noticed some new faces hovering around your doorstep. Faces of the insect variety that is. I’m talking about boxelder bugs.

Bonus Fun Fact: Boxelder bugs overwinter by hibernating in places where it’s just warm enough to not freeze to death. In nature, this would be crevices in the ground, trees, or other locations out of the way of the elements. It also includes your house. This time of year, boxelder bugs are often found around windows, doors, and foundations, hoping to find a way into your toasty home interior. If they do make it inside, they aren’t harmful, and just want to take a long rest. This isn’t unique to boxelder bugs; it is a behavior of many insects, most notably including the brown marmorated stink bug, which you are likely familiar with.

This can be a nuisance to humans, but these insects are only trying to do their natural thing. If you’re like me and don’t want them in your house, but also want to be kind to them, you can put them outside on a mild temperature day or near a protected spot. They can find a place to go.