The wingless immature or nymphal stage has a black head, antennae, and legs. The red abdomen has an orange-yellow stripe and spot down the center of the back. Boxelder bugs feed on plants during the summer. Sweep or vacuum up and discard those found inside. They will not multiply nor will they infest any household articles.
Exclusion is important in reducing numbers that get indoors.
Check door sweeps and places outside the house that may allow them to get inside. If large numbers are present every year, removal of female boxelder plants should be considered because this is the major host plant for them. Other alternatives include controlling insects while they are on the boxelder plant or direct sprays of congregations of the insects on outside walls. Insecticidal soap provides a safe control alternative but it must be sprayed directly on the insects to be effective. The use of some products may not be legal in your state or country.