Idaho's latest invasive insect new to the US

BOISE (AP) — State officials say an invasive insect never before found in the United States has been detected in southwestern Idaho.

The state Department of Agriculture issued a statement Wednesday saying elm seed bugs have been found in Ada and Canyon counties. The agency says the pesky insects don't pose a threat to trees, but can prove a homeowner's nightmare.

The bugs tend to enter houses and buildings in large quantities during the summer to escape heat, and they tend to stick around through the winter. The bugs are more commonly found in south-central Europe and feed on elm tree seeds.

Idaho officials say that since the bug is new to America, the federal Department of Agriculture will take the lead role in research the pest and its possible impacts.