Are boxelder bugs dangerous?
They are not dangerous but they are a nuisance pest when they infest homes and other structures in search of overwintering sites in the fall and then again when they leave in the spring. On occasion, property owners may find red staining on fabrics.
Boxelder bugs are true bugs and have piercing-sucking mouthparts that are able to puncture the skin. While they do not frequently do so, it could cause minor irritation or leave behind a red mark similar to a mosquito bite. They do not spread disease or illness.
Boxelder bugs will eat newly developing leaves of boxelder and maple trees and on occasion, feed on the plums and apples straight from the fruit trees.