Red wings on insects may seem unusual, but many species sport this vibrant hue. From beetles to moths, red wings serve important functions for these bugs’ survival. Let’s explore some of the most eye-catching red-winged bugs and uncover why red wings give them an advantage.
A Warning Sign
For many insects, red wings act as a warning to potential predators. The bold coloration signals toxicity or foul taste, deterring birds and other animals from making them a meal. This phenomenon is called aposematism. While the bugs may or may not actually be toxic, the bright colors alone are often enough to make predators think twice Even if tasted, the unpleasant experience teaches the predator to avoid red-winged insects thereafter
Beetle Beauties
Several types of beetles have stunning red wing covers. The aptly named red net-winged beetle sports rusty-red forewings with distinct lines Its legs and antennae are black, creating a bold contrast Meanwhile, the bloody net-winged beetle lives up to its name with entirely red wings and body. Only the wing tips are black.
Other red-winged beetles include:
- Blood-winged blister beetle: Dark red body and wings with brown undertones
- Golden net-winged beetle: Shimmering red wings with black markings
- Spotted cucumber beetle: Reddish-orange wings with black spots
For these beetles, the red hue likely warns of an unpleasant taste. The coloring also makes them easy to identify as adults after beginning life as dull-colored larvae.
Wasps with Warning Wings
Sporting wings in shades of red, orange, or yellow, several wasp species want to be seen. This is especially true of tarantula hawk wasps, renowned for their extremely painful stings. The vibrant wings warn predators that an attack will not end well.
Some red-winged wasps include:
- Tarantula hawk wasp: Orange or orange-red wings
- Eastern tawny-horned spider wasp: Orange or red wings
- Elegant grass-carrying wasp: Red, red-brown or black wings
Rather than eating their prey, these wasps paralyze tarantulas and other spiders. After dragging them to a nest, they lay an egg on the body to provide fresh food for the hatchling.
Vibrant Moth Wings
Moths can also take advantage of red’s attention-grabbing power. Many species flash red underwings when threatened or in flight. While hidden at rest, the sudden flash of color startles predators. Some moths with red wings include:
- Virgin tiger moth: Red hindwings and lower body
- Ultronia underwing moth: Brown forewings, red hindwings with black bands
- Cinnabar moth: Red and black striped forewings, mostly red hindwings
- Spotted oleander moth: Black body and red wings
Interestingly, some of these moths begin life as brightly colored larvae before developing red wings as adults. Others go through a complete metamorphosis, starting dull and growing vivid wings.
Alluring and Defensive
For some red-winged insects, the color serves multiple purposes beyond defense. Several species use their brilliant hues to attract mates. The added benefit of deterring predators makes red wings especially useful signaling tools.
Dragonflies like the scarlet skimmer dazzle with their glossy red bodies. But they can back up the warning colors with painful bites if threatened. Red-winged grasshoppers and katydids similarly use their bright wings to signal mates and threaten enemies.
Mimicking Toxins
Some harmless insects copy the red wing patterns of toxic species to reap the anti-predator benefits. In mimicry, non-toxic bugs adopt the coloration of dangerous insects to trick predators into thinking they’re equally poisonous or foul-tasting. A predator that encounters an unpalatable red-winged insect may avoid eating similar-looking species in the future. This offers protection for mimics.
A Rainbow of Wings
While red makes a bold statement, other insects flaunt wings in an array of different hues. Iridescent greens, bright blues, sunny yellows – wing colors are diverse in the insect world. Different species use distinctive shades to recognize each other, attract mates, camouflage themselves, regulate temperature, and warn off enemies. Vibrant wings allow insects to communicate and survive.
So next time you encounter a beetle, moth, wasp, or other insect flaunting flashy wings, appreciate the vital role color plays. Reds and other vibrant hues have an important job to do, helping insects thrive in a complex world.
What Do Boxelder Bugs Look Like?
If you come across black and orange bugs, you may be seeing boxelder bugs. These types of insects have black with reddish or orange markings on their back in the form of a pattern, adult boxelder bugs have a body shape that is a somewhat-flattened and elongated oval and is about half an inch long. They have six legs and two antennae that are typically half of their body length. Nymphs look similar to adults but lack wings and are bright red in color instead of the familiar black and orange pattern. Do Boxelder Bugs Bite?
Boxelder bugs are not known to bite, but their piercing-sucking mouthparts can occasionally puncture skin, causing a slight irritation and producing a red spot similar to a mosquito bite. This is another reason why it’s best to avoid them. Where Do Boxelder Bugs Live?
Overwintering adult boxelder bugs emerge from hibernation in late March to early April when the boxelder buds open. During this time, the adults leave their overwintering sites to return to their host trees for the warmer months. They first feed on fallen boxelder seeds and later move to the female boxelder trees or maple trees where they eat newly developing leaves. Occasionally, these black and orange bugs will feed on the fruits of plum and apple trees.
The females lay clusters of straw-yellow eggs on stones, eaves, grass, shrubs and trees – especially in the bark crevices of boxelder trees. The eggs turn red as the embryos develop and hatch about two weeks later. The nymphs feed on fallen boxelder seeds and later on new leaves. There are two generations per year in the warmer regions of the United States.
In the fall, boxelder bugs become gregarious and congregate on the south side of rocks, trees and buildings where the sun hits. After large masses gather, they migrate to nearby buildings or homes to overwinter. These black and orange bugs tend to hide in small cracks and crevices in walls to insulate themselves from the cold winter temperatures. In late March to early April, adults leave their overwintering sites to return to their host trees for the warmer months. Can Boxelder Bugs Hurt You?
Inside, boxelder bugs are primarily a nuisance pest, meaning they shouldn’t be considered a threat. This is because they don’t typically intend to bite humans. However, if you notice the distinctive black and orange pattern of these bugs, you should avoid them, as their mouths can irritate your skin like a bite.
Their fecal material can cause a red stain on curtains, drapes, clothing, etc. Like stink bugs, when crushed or handled roughly, boxelder bugs can also produce a strong, disagreeable odor. This is why it is often recommended you contact an exterminator instead of trying to handle an infestation on your own. Signs of a Boxelder Bug Infestation
Boxelder bugs generally become a problem when they invade homes, sheds and garages in the fall and when they emerge in the spring. Like many overwintering pests, homeowners may see evidence of these bugs as the winter ends and they leave their overwintering site to go back outdoors. Signs of an infestation include red stains on cloth items like curtains or clothing. How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
Several steps can be taken to prevent boxelder bugs from invading homes. This includes:
- Repairing holes in window and door screens
- Sealing cracks and crevices with a good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk
- Installing door sweeps to all exterior entrances
The good news is that a boxelder bug is nothing to fear — their presence can simply be a nuisance.
If you do find an infestation of black and orange bugs and need to get them out of your home or other building, be careful of DIY efforts to kill them. No attempt should be made to kill them in wall voids, because dead insect bodies can attract dermestid beetles (larder beetles, carpet beetles, etc). Experts recommend waiting until summer when all live overwintering adults are out of the wall voids. To provide temporary relief during this time, consider using a vacuum cleaner to get rid of the boxelder bugs. The bag should be removed to prevent the bugs from escaping. Then, seal up any entryways into the living space – window pulleys, window and door frames, baseboards, etc. – to prevent a future infestation. For electrical outlets, switch boxes, heating ducts and return air vents, remove the coverplate, seal and replace. For light fixtures and ceiling fans, remove the fixture to its base plate, seal and replace.
If a boxelder bug infestation is suspected, a licensed pest control professional should be contacted to evaluate and assess the problem. Since they can attract other pests, it’s an infestation best to avoid dealing with on your own.
You can find a certified pest professional near you with the helpful zip code search below.
What is a Boxelder Bug?
Boxelder bugs get their common name from the fact that they are often found on and around boxelder trees. This black and orange bug is native to the western states, but can be found from eastern Canada throughout the eastern United States, and west to eastern Nevada, wherever boxelder trees are found. Since boxelder bugs don’t bite, they are primarily a nuisance pest. These black and orange bugs enter structures including homes, sheds and garages to overwinter.
Meet the Bug You Didn’t Know You Were Eating | Deep Look
FAQ
What are the bugs with red wings?
Boxelder bugs are common pests here in the Pacific Northwest. You may recognize these bugs as their appearance shows distinct red markings on their wings on a dark brown body.
Are red-shouldered bugs harmful?
-
Not Aggressive or Biting:Red-shouldered bugs are not known to bite or sting humans or pets.
-
Nuisance, Not Harmful:They can be a nuisance if they enter homes in large numbers, especially in the fall when they seek warmth.
-
Potential for Damage:They can damage young fruit by scarring or dimpling it, and their fecal material can stain surfaces.
-
Management:If you’re dealing with a red-shouldered bug infestation, you can try raking up seeds (their food source), knocking them off plants with water, or removing host trees.
What insect is red and has wings?
What Do Red Flour Beetles Look Like? Red flour beetles are shiny and reddish-brown in color, they have a flattened, oval shaped body and are winged.
Are boxelder bugs harmful?
Boxelder bugs are nuisance pests. They do not sting or transmit disease, and are generally not known to bite, though there are rare reports of defensive biting. Boxelder bugs are not known to cause damage to homes or significant damage to plants.
Do bugs have Red Wings?
Red wings aren’t necessarily typical on bugs. Many species have brown or black wings to better blend in with the environment. Other species are known to have red wings. This helps them stay away from potential predators as red acts similarly to a warning sign. Pure vivid red wings are rare in the world of bugs and insects.
What are some common red and black bugs?
Here are 15 types of common bugs that can be identified by their red and black colors. The boxelder bug is a common black and red flying bug with reddish or orange lines or markings on a flattened, elongated oval body. Adult winged boxelder bugs measure 0.5” (13 mm) long.
What are the most common red and black bugs in yards?
The most common red and black insects in yards and houses in spring are boxelder bugs and red-shouldered bugs.
Do boxelder bugs have Red Wing buds?
The colour red carries through to the edges of their wings and appears in their eyes, as well. Immature boxelder bugs, called nymphs, are bright red with black wing buds. Adults prefer to overwinter in dry, sheltered areas such as woodpiles, inside barns and sheds, or around window casements.
How can you identify bugs that are black and red?
To identify black and red bugs, look for distinct features like prominent red stripes on their black body. For instance, boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) have more prominent red stripes compared to red-shouldered bugs (Jadera haematoloma). Some of these bugs are so tiny that a magnifying glass may be needed for accurate identification.
What does a red and black bug nymph look like?
A red and black bug nymph, specifically a red-shouldered bug nymph, has a bright red body and a black head. They measure around 0.5” (13 mm) long and have distinctive flattened oval bodies. Like boxelder nymphs, they also have black heads, dark brown or black legs, and antennae.