Lady Bug

Photos

formal_name

Coccinellids

 

description

A few species are considered pests in North America and Europe, but they are generally considered useful insects as many species feed on aphids or scale insects, which are pests in gardens, agricultural fields, orchards, and similar places. Harmonia axyridis (or the Harlequin ladybug) was introduced into North America from Asia in 1988 to control aphids but is now the most common species as it is out-competing many of the native species.

 

color

Black and Red

 

legs

6

 

shape

Oval

 

size

1 mm to 10 mm (0.04 to 0.4 inches)

 

antenanae

yes

 

region

 

habits

 

habitat

Predatory ladybugs are usually found on plants where aphids or scale insects are, and they lay their eggs near their prey, to increase the likelihood the larvae will find the prey easily. Ladybugs are cosmopolitan in distribution, as are their prey.

 

threats

None

 

prevention

Seal cracks in foundation, windows, and doors.

 

catagories

Occassional Invader

 

pest_category_id

7