Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Beetles, bugs, ants, and other insects without obvious wings - Under 1/4 inch long > Boxelder bug

Boxelder bug

Boisea trivittata

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Description: 1/16 - 1/2 inch long. Bright red abdomen with dark red to black head, antennae, legs and wing pads. Often found clustered in groups.

Where/When: Feeds on fallen leaves and boxelder seeds. May also be found clustered on a wide variety of herbaceous plants. Found in gardens from May through September.

Significance: No feeding injury to herbaceous plants.

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