Fall Invaders in Rolla & St. James: Asian Lady Beetles & Boxelder Bugs—How to Keep Them Out

Why fall = “bugs on the siding”
Warm daytime sun plus cool evenings push these pests to gather (swarm) on south/west walls and slip into tiny gaps to overwinter in attics and wall voids.

Quick ID Guide

Asian Lady Beetles vs. native ladybugs

• Asian lady beetle: orange to red, spots vary, often a black “M/W” mark behind the head; known for large clusters on homes.

• Native ladybug: smaller, bright red, even spots; rarely swarms structures.

Boxelder bugs

• Boxelder bug: black with red/orange lines on wings; congregates on maples/boxelder trees and sunny siding; enters buildings in fall.

Common Entry Points on Homes

Where they squeeze through

• Upper siding/soffit seams, fascia and rake boards

• Attic and ridge vents (coarse screens)

• Gaps at utility lines, cable/AC penetrations, meter boxes

• Window/door casings, weep holes, foundation/top-plate gaps

Prevention That Works (Do this before first cold snap)

Exclusion + targeted exterior protection

• Seal with high-quality caulk/foam at trim, utility holes, and siding transitions.

• Add fine mesh to attic/soffit vents; repair screens/weather-stripping.

• Reduce exterior night lighting or switch to warmer color temps.

• Schedule a perimeter/upper-story treatment on sun-exposed walls to intercept migrants.

Why DIY Sprays Often Disappoint

Timing and placement beat blanket spraying
Contact sprays on lower walls miss attic/soffit seams where insects actually enter, and can stain siding. Correct products and upper-elevation application are key.

Our Fall Invader Program (Rolla & St. James)

Stop them before they get inside

• Exterior inspection to map hot sides (south/west) and entry seams

• Targeted treatment to soffits, eaves, siding joints, vents, and penetrations

• Exclusion checklist you can tackle the same week

• Optional mid-winter follow-up if warm spells trigger indoor sightings

Service Area & Best Timing

Book early for best results
We serve Rolla & St. James and nearby Phelps County. Best window: late summer through early fall before the first hard frost.

Ready to keep fall invaders out?

Get A Free Estimate!

Contact Us Today! https://www.plankpest.com/contact

Call Us Today! 573-368-3333