What to know
- European firebugs are distinctive red-and-black insects native to Europe and western Asia that have established populations in parts of Ontario.
- The bugs can gather in large numbers and may seek sheltered areas, including around buildings, as temperatures cool.
- They are considered primarily a nuisance and are not known to pose a threat to people or pets. The City of Toronto says they do not affect tree health.
- If they enter a home, avoid crushing them, as they can stain surfaces and produce an unpleasant odour. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can help keep them outside.
Think winter means a break from bugs? Nope. European firebugs, big red-and-black insects, are turning up across Ontario this season. Here’s what you should know before they move into your home.
Summer might be coming to an end, but the bugs are not. As winter’s cold will soon begin to approach, swarms of these red and black bugs (Pyrrhocoris apterus) will seek warm shelter indoors. So, seal all windows and doors.
The good news is that European firebugs are considered primarily a nuisance. They are not known to pose a health risk to people or pets, and the City of Toronto says they do not affect tree health.
Their tendency to gather in noticeable numbers, however, can make them an unwelcome visitor around homes.
Because the bugs can stain fabrics and surfaces and produce an unpleasant odour when crushed, homeowners should avoid squishing them indoors. A vacuum can be used to remove individual bugs or clusters that make their way inside.
Preventing entry in the first place can also help. Check for and seal gaps around windows, doors, siding and other potential entry points.
What are European firebugs?
The European firebugs are native to Europe and western Asia, and were first documented in North America in 2008.
In June, female red firebugs begin laying eggs and can produce between 40 and 80 eggs throughout their lifetime. Adults can live up to two years.
Will the City of Toronto remove European firebugs?
Don’t expect the city to remove them from your property. Because European firebugs do not affect tree health, the City of Toronto does not provide control or removal for the insects.
That means residents dealing with firebugs around their homes will generally need to focus on preventing them from getting inside and removing any that do enter.
