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Denver Sees Surge in Home Insect Infestations

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. nver-sees-surge-in-home-insect-infestations.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 10:58 GMT by The Denver Post
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Denver, Colorado - March 23rd, 2026 - Denver residents are increasingly finding themselves sharing their homes with unwelcome guests: insects. Reports of indoor infestations, particularly from boxelder bugs, elm leaf beetles, and stink bugs, have surged in recent months, prompting concerns about both property damage and potential health impacts. Experts are linking this uptick to a changing climate and milder winters, creating conditions favorable for insect proliferation.

Julie Thompson, an entomologist with Colorado State University Extension, confirms the trend. "We've seen a significant rise in calls regarding indoor insect activity," she stated. "People are understandably anxious about these intrusions and are seeking guidance on how to manage them effectively."

Boxelder bugs, easily identifiable by their black and red markings, are notorious for their habit of seeking shelter from the cold inside homes. They infiltrate structures through tiny cracks and crevices, often congregating in attics, wall voids, and around window frames. While not inherently dangerous, their sheer numbers can be unsettling and lead to staining of surfaces with their excrement. Elm leaf beetles, as their name suggests, feed voraciously on elm trees, but will readily enter homes in search of refuge or a new food source. Stink bugs, known for releasing a pungent odor when threatened or disturbed, present another layer of discomfort for homeowners.

The reasons behind this increase are multifaceted, but climate change is emerging as a key driver. Colorado has experienced a pattern of warmer average temperatures and milder winters over the past decade. This has a direct impact on insect populations. Milder winters mean fewer insects are killed off by freezing temperatures, allowing a larger number to survive and reproduce in the spring. Furthermore, extended warmer periods lengthen the growing season, creating more opportunities for multiple generations of insects to thrive.

"We're observing a clear trend of increasing insect populations throughout Colorado," Thompson explains. "The changing climate is undoubtedly accelerating this phenomenon. It's not just about a few more bugs each year; it's a systemic shift in the ecosystem."

Beyond the direct impact on homeowners, this increase in insect populations has broader ecological implications. Changes in insect distributions and abundances can disrupt pollination patterns, affect plant health, and impact the food chain. Agricultural areas may also face increased challenges from insect pests, potentially requiring more intensive pest management strategies.

Prevention is Key: Protecting Your Home

Experts emphasize that proactive measures are the most effective way to minimize the risk of infestations. Thompson recommends a comprehensive approach to home protection:

• Seal Entry Points: Thoroughly inspect the exterior of your home and seal any cracks or crevices in the foundation, around windows and doors, and where pipes or wires enter the structure. Use caulk, weather stripping, or expanding foam to close gaps.
• Install Screens: Ensure all windows and doors are fitted with tight-fitting screens to prevent insects from entering.
• Manage Moisture: Eliminate sources of standing water around your property, as these attract insects. Repair leaky faucets and ensure proper drainage.
• Landscaping Practices: Keep vegetation trimmed away from the foundation of your home. This reduces potential harborage areas for insects and limits their access to the structure.
• Exterior Lighting: Reduce the use of bright exterior lights, as these can attract insects.

Non-Toxic Removal Methods

When insects do find their way inside, Thompson strongly advocates for non-toxic removal methods. "Avoid the temptation to reach for harsh chemicals," she advises. "They can pose risks to human and pet health, and often provide only temporary relief." Instead, she suggests:

• Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up insects directly. This is an effective way to remove large numbers of bugs quickly.
• Flushing with Water: Gently flush insects outside with a stream of water from a garden hose or spray bottle.
• Trapping: Consider using sticky traps to capture insects. Place them in areas where you've observed insect activity.

Resources and Further Information

Homeowners concerned about insect infestations can find valuable resources and information from the Colorado State University Extension office. Local offices offer expertise on insect identification, control methods, and preventative strategies. Additionally, several online resources provide information on common household pests and best practices for managing them. As climate change continues to reshape the landscape, understanding and adapting to these changing insect dynamics will be crucial for protecting homes and maintaining a healthy environment.