WSU Extension Q&A: Elm seed bugs more of a nuisance in the house
Q. I am finding a lot of little reddish brown bugs in my house. They do not bite, but they are annoying. What are they, and what can I do about them?
A. Without a sample, we can’t be sure what it is, but a number of residents have been bringing elm seed bugs to our extension office in Kennewick. Adult specimens have an oblong 1/3-inch-long brown body, which is flat on top, with their folded wings creating a black triangle within a reddish-brown rectangle. The underside of their abdomen is red, as are the top and bottom of immature elm seed bugs. They feed primarily on the seeds of elm trees.
Elm seed bugs do not hurt humans, or infest food or household goods. They are primarily a nuisance, and are simply lost when they get into your home. Experts recommend preventing their entry by caulking any gaps around doors, windows and siding; sealing around utility or other openings in your walls; and repairing screens. If you find them indoors, vacuum them up with a shop vacuum that contains soapy water to drown them, being sure to remove your filter first.
Q. What is the value of all the hay exported out of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma?
A. The two ports have combined and are now called the Northwest Seaport Alliance. Last year, 4,212,000 metric tons of hay valued at $1.24 billion dollars were exported from all ports on the West Coast. The Northwest Seaport Alliance is responsible for about half of that, making the value of hay leaving the Northwest approximately $620 million.
Q. I want my child to show an animal at the fair. Is it too late to join 4-H?
A. April 30 was the deadline to submit 4-H projects for shows and fairs. However, you can join 4-H any time during the year. Your child still has time to register to show an animal in open class at the Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo, and information on how to do that in the exhibitor’s guide on their website.
To find out about local 4-H clubs and projects, call the Pasco extension office at 509-545-3511.
To submit a question, call the WSU Extension in Kennewick at 509-735-3551.
This story was originally published July 2, 2016 at 7:51 PM with the headline "WSU Extension Q&A: Elm seed bugs more of a nuisance in the house."