Boxelder bug

Boisea trivittata

AdultAn everyday search

Thin red lines cross a black body. In fall, these bugs often gather on sunny walls.

Little clues

Three things to notice.

Out in the world

Around southeastern Wisconsin

Sunny walls in fall.

When to look

Sunny September and October days on walls; on trees in summer.

Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.

A closer look

Young boxelder bugs are brighter red and have not grown full wings yet. The thin red lines are adult clues.

A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.

For curious grownups, too

Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.

Make a bug slide

Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.