Asian Lady Beetle
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Lady Bug Control Services In Central Wisconsin
How to identify
Adult Asian lady beetles are oval, convex, and about 1/4-inch long. Their color can vary widely from tan to orange to red. They often have several black spots on the wing covers, although on some beetles the spots may be indistinct or entirely absent. Multi-spotted individuals tend to be females while those with few or no spots tend to be males. Most beetles have a small, dark "M" or "W"-shaped marking on the whitish area behind the head.
What you need to know
As autumn approaches, the adult beetles leave their summer feeding sites in yards, fields, and forests for protected places to spend the winter. Unfortunately, homes and buildings are one such location. Swarms of lady beetles typically fly to buildings from September through November depending on location and weather conditions.
Studies have shown that Asian lady beetles are attracted to illuminated surfaces. They tend to congregate on the sunnier, southwest sides of buildings illuminated by the afternoon sun. Homes or buildings shaded from the afternoon sun are less likely to attract beetles. House color or type of construction (concrete, brick, wood/vinyl siding) is less of a factor for attraction than surface contrast.
Once the beetles gather on buildings, they seek out crevices and protected places to spend the winter. They often congregate in attics, wall cavities, and other protected locations.
As temperatures warm in late winter/early spring, the beetles once again become active. This usually occurs first on the sunnier, southwest side of the building. As awakening beetles attempt to escape to the outdoors, some inadvertently wander inward, emerging from behind baseboards, walls, attics, suspended ceilings, etc. Since lady beetles are attracted to light, they are often seen around windows and light fixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs of a ladybug infestation may include seeing large numbers of ladybugs in or around your home, finding ladybug droppings or stains, and noticing a musty or pungent odor.
Ladybugs are not dangerous to humans and do not bite or sting.
Effective ladybug treatments may include using insecticide sprays or dusts, as well as removing any infested materials from your home. It’s best to consult with a pest control professional for the most effective treatment plan.
To prevent ladybugs from entering your home, seal any cracks or gaps in walls or floors, use weather stripping on doors and windows, and remove any leaf litter or debris from around your home.