Boxelder bugs, naturally enough, are attracted to boxelder trees, which are a type of maple. However, at certain times of the year, thousands of these red and black insects can gather on the trees, as well as anyone or anything nearby. While these bugs cause little damage to trees, and are also harmless to people and pets, they are generally considered disgusting to have around. During the fall, they tend to gather in huge numbers, sometimes getting into homes or crawling on people. If you have maple trees, you'll probably have a problem with boxelder bugs at one time or another. A reputable pest control professional will be familiar with the bugs, and offer advice on controlling them. With increasing concerns about the environment, it is extremely important to seek professional advice on anything having to do with poisons. You want to get rid of the boxelder bugs without endangering beneficial insects, birds or pets.
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