What are these NEW tiny insects that seem to be taking over my house? The simple answer: Elm Seed Bugs.
The long answer: Elm Seed Bugs, a newer pest to the State of Colorado (currently found only in the Western Slope), are likely something that you have seen this year. In most cases, you will notice these insects when they congregate on South or West-facing sides of your house, and when they sneak in to your home- you are even more likely to notice them. Sharing similar behaviors to their relatives, the Boxelder Bugs and the Western Conifer Seed Bugs, these insects are looking for shelter from adverse weather conditions (such as extreme temperatures, and seasonal changes, etc.). The primary reason for these seasonal ‘invasions’ is due to these insects’ overwintering behavior- leading them to warm, stable, indoor environments to survive through winter, followed by their move outside the home in the spring, where they reproduce to start the cycle again. Do I need to worry about them? No. Although these are newer insects to the state (with the first records beginning in summer 2017 in the Tri River Area), these insects do not cause any crop damage, structural damage, nor do they reproduce inside your homes. Their primary food source, like their name suggests, are Elm Seeds from Siberian Elm Trees (which are abundant in Colorado). How can I get rid of them? The best way to manage these nuisance pests is to prevent them from entering your home. Doing your best to seal any cracks and crevices, replacing damaged door sweeps and screens, and replacing any missing siding and paneling will minimize any of these invaders seeking shelter in your home. You can also use pyrethroid insecticides (labeled for outdoor structural use) outside window and door entryways as an additional barrier. If they find their way in, the simplest strategy to removing them is by sweeping or vacuuming them up and disposing of them outside or flushing them down the toilet. For more information about the Elm Seed Bug: http://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/insect/05619.pdf
1 Comment
9/9/2023 01:59:33 am
This insect control article is a lifesaver! The author's insights and practical tips make it an invaluable resource for dealing with pesky pests. Thanks for sharing these effective solutions for a bug-free living space!
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About the Author:Abi Saeed is an Entomologist with a specialization in Pollinators, Horticulture, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Pesticides, Insect Identification, and Plant Pathology. |