Boxelder Bugs or Maple Bugs

What is a maple bug?

Maple bugs are an insect that feeds by sucking the nutrients from the plant tissue. They are small, approximately 1.0 - 1.5cm in length, and black with red markings.

What kind of damage is caused by maple bugs?

Maple bugs will feed primarily on the seeds of Manitoba maple (boxelder) and sometimes green ash. These insects are harmless, but they can become a nuisance when they congregate in large numbers on sidewalks, garages or sides of houses.

How do I control for maple bugs?

Maple bugs can most easily be dealt with by sweeping them into a garbage bag or by using a vacuum when they are abundant.