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Boxelder Bug vs. Red-Shouldered Bug: Identification and Harmlessness

Masses of red-and-black bugs are likely boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittatus) if near boxelder or Japanese maples, or red-shouldered bugs (Jadera haematoloma) if near goldenrain trees. Both are harmless, don't bite, and need no control.

They congregate under liriope and on walls in spring/fall. Wash off houses if desired.

box elder bugs

Red-shouldered bugs mating

About Gardening: Identifying an Immature Assassin Bug in a Singapore Home; Finding Wild Elderberries: Join a Native Plant Rescue; Red-Shouldered Bugs: Harmless Goldenrain Tree Visitors; Boxelder Bug Invasions: Prevention and Control; Millet in the Yard: Birdseed Volunteer; Wheel Bug: Beneficial Predator with a Painful Bite; Scarlet Assassin Bug: Beneficial Predator of Japanese Beetles; Spigelia (Indian Pink): Native Woodland Wildflower; Selaginella: The Charming Club Moss for Shady Groundcover; Identifying Volunteer Sorghum: Birdseed Escapee

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