Elm seed bugs are a relatively new problem to Greater Vancouver, only being a concern in the last few years. Larval elm seed bugs feed on the seeds of elm trees in spring and early summer. They are generally only a problem for people who have elm trees in their vicinity. They use our homes in summer to avoid the heat. They will often be found around lightly-coloured painted areas at the exterior of the home. They will also use the home in the fall/winter to stay warm and over-winter. They can be all over the home in the thousands, all around windows, doors, soffits, fascia boards, foundation, etc. and eventually gain access inside the home. Their droppings can also stain painted areas of the home.
Raking up and discarding fallen elm seeds can help with prevention. Preventative treatments around the home can be done to help keep the bugs from accessing the building itself as well as targeting the most vulnerable and common areas they infest.