Beetles
These seasonal invaders can gather in large numbers on homes and buildings. Discover how to identify, remove, and prevent these nuisance beetles from taking over your space.
Identification
Elm seed and boxelder bugs are seasonal invaders that gather on the sunny sides of buildings, especially in the fall. Elm seed bugs are small, brownish beetles with dark markings, while boxelder bugs are black with red-orange stripes.
Elimination
For immediate relief, vacuum up beetles indoors and dispose of them in a sealed bag. Avoid crushing them, as they can leave stains and unpleasant odors. Outdoor perimeter treatments with insecticides can help reduce large populations.
Prevention
Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and siding before fall to prevent entry. Consider using fine mesh screens on vents and chimneys. Reducing the number of boxelder and elm trees near your home can help limit their presence.
Learn About More Utah Pests
Identifying and understanding the most common Utah pests and how to avoid individual pest problems.