How do I get rid of boxelder bugs? What to know about the unwanted fall house guests

When Michigan sees warm fall days, boxelder bugs won't be hard to find as they cluster in the sun on walls and other warm spots around your house.

The black-and-red or orange insects are a frequent (and unwanted) house guest during in fall for Michigan residents.

" Boxelder bugs invade our homes and other structures in the fall of the year looking for dry, protected sites (attics, wall cavities) in which to spend the winter," said Michigan State University's Plant & Pest Diagnostics. "They can become quite numerous on the south and west sides of homes where they congregate in the warm autumn sun."

Similar to other insects each fall — including less friendly yellow jackets — boxelders are looking to settle down before cold temperatures set in.

"They are a nuisance but also harmless.