Boisea trivittata “Box Elder Bug” Rhopalidae
Missoula, MT
October 8, 2014
Robert Niese
Box Elder Bugs are Acer specialists, feeding exclusively on the samaras (seeds) of various maple species. Box Elder Bugs tend to create massive congregations in sunny spots to keep warm while feeding and are often considered a nuisance in such large numbers – especially when the days become colder and they seek refuge in my bedroom! But overall, they’re totally harmless.
Northwest Naturalist 