Boxelder Bug vs Pigeon Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Boxelder Bug Pigeon Bug
Scientific Name Boisea trivittata Cimex columbarius
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Rhopalidae Cimicidae
Size 11-14 mm 4-5 mm
Habitat Underground Woodlands
Diet Sap Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Boxelder Bug

A black and red bug that forms large aggregations on and around boxelder trees in autumn. It is commonly seen warming itself on sunny building walls before entering structures to overwinter. It is harmless but considered a nuisance pest.

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Did You Know?

Thousands of individuals can aggregate on the south-facing walls of buildings on warm autumn days, creating dramatic displays before entering homes to overwinter in wall voids.

Pigeon Bug

A cimicid ectoparasite of pigeons and doves found in nest sites and dovecotes across Europe. It can bite humans in buildings with pigeon infestations.

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Did You Know?

Removing pigeon nests from buildings without treating for these bugs often drives them indoors to bite residents.