Bright Red Bug on Ash Tree: Velvet Mite or Boxelder Bug Nymph?

A bright red, tick-like bug on an ash tree in southeastern Pennsylvania could be a velvet mite (Balaustium putmani) or a boxelder bug nymph (Boisea trivittata). Velvet mites are beneficial predators of other mites and small insects, overwintering as eggs under bark. Boxelder bug nymphs are conspicuously bright red and often cluster on trees and buildings.

Identification Tips

• Velvet mite: Velvety texture, solitary, predatory.
• Boxelder bug nymph: Flattened, often in groups, associated with boxelder, maple, or ash trees.

For a definitive ID, email a clear, high-resolution photo to jimhyland@yahoo.com with "Expert picture" in the subject line. The boxelder bug is the more likely candidate given the description.