Why People Confuse These Two Bugs
In Clintonville’s Beechwold neighborhood, homeowners sometimes spot dark-colored, winged insects with orange or red markings around their homes—leading to confusion between boxelder bugs and kissing bugs. At first glance they look similar, but the difference is significant. Boxelder bugs are nuisance pests, while kissing bugs pose real health risks because they can transmit Chagas disease. Boxelder bugs are common in Ohio, especially in the fall when they cluster on sunny siding, windows, and walls looking for warmth before winter. While they don’t bite or damage homes, they can leave behind stains and unpleasant odors when crushed. Kissing bugs, on the other hand, are blood-feeding insects found mainly in the southern U.S. They can bite both people and pets while sleeping and, more concerning, transmit parasites that cause Chagas disease. Although rare in Ohio, being able to tell them apart is essential.Key Differences Between Boxelder Bugs and Kissing Bugs
Pest Index · Ohio
Boxelder bug or kissing bug?
Both are dark insects with orange or red markings, so people mix them up. The difference matters: one is a fall nuisance, the other can carry disease.
2Species1Worth watching1Lower concern
01
Kissing Bug
Disease riskSpot itOrange or red bands along the abdomen edge and a distinct cone-shaped head.
WhereMainly the southern U.S. and rare in Ohio; active at night near sleeping people.
NoteCan bite at night and transmit the parasite behind Chagas disease. Leave suspected ones to professionals.
02
Boxelder Bug
NuisanceSpot itBlack with red or orange lines across the wings and a narrower body.
WhereCommon across Ohio; clusters on sunny siding and walls in fall.
NoteDoes not bite or damage homes, but can stain surfaces and may slip indoors to overwinter.
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