Lady Bugs

(Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles, Spotted Lady Beetles)

This insect gets its name from the fact that it is beautiful, gentle and elegantly dressed.

HOW TO IDENTIFY LADY BUGS

The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle adults are small to moderate in size - about 7/32 to 1/4 of an inch long, oval and can be red, yellow, orange, or black in color. North American populations range in color from yellow-orange to bright red-orange, with or without black spots. Their antennae are very short and usually not noticeable. The Multicolored Asian Lady beetle has a pronotum (found just behind the head)that is ivory with black markings that look like a "W" or "M" when viewed from the front or the back. The beetle has a chemical defense to discourage predators. This foul-smelling chemical is also present in their hemolymph (blood) and the beetles will "reflex bleed" when agitated, releasing hemolymph through the joints on their legs. This discharge will cause staining. They are found throughout much of the eastern U.S.

WHERE DO LADY BUGS COME FROM?

They have been introduced from Asia by organic gardeners to be a biological control measure against aphids, mealy bugs, mites, and other soft-bodied insects.

In their native home, large numbers of these beetles overwinter in mountains and craggy outcrops.

Because North Carolina does not have the granite mountain features that the beetles seek to pass the winter, they are attracted to light-colored houses on the horizon that mimic the usual hibernation sites.

WHERE DO YOU SEE LADY BUGS?

Until recently, this insect was not even noticed inside homes and structures. Since their introduction into the US in 1979, their spread has increased rapidly with high populations developing quickly.

Because of their overwintering behavior, the beetles congregate in homes and structures in and around siding, eaves and attics much like overwintering wasps.

On occasional warm winter days, they can be observed in living quarters where they are attracted to lights.

NOTE: Although these beetles are considered beneficial, their hibernation habits make them more of a nuisance than a pest.

Occasionally they will bite people as a way of obtaining salt. In addition, some people have exhibited an allergic reaction when they have come in contact with the hemolymph.

Ways to prevent lady bugs (lady beetles) from entering the home:

Seal gaps around doors and windows
Install chimney caps with screens
Repair foundation cracks
Seal siding cracks
Repair foundation vent's screen
Seek professional assistance and a pest prevention plan

Economy Exterminators Pest Prevention Plus program uses the 4 step approach to solve your American Roach pest problem:

Our 1st step is the inspection of the property by a Customer Service Representative. It is very important to know the species involved and the severity of the pest problem.
The 2nd step would be the initial treatment by a Customer Service Representative of all areas that the inspection revealed as critical areas. Economy Exterminators uses the newest and most effective materials to solve this pest problem fast for you. Usual critical areas would be the living rooms, bedrooms, vaulted ceiling areas, and attics.
The 3^rd step is a 37 point inspection of your property to identify areas on your property that gives easy access of the Lady Bug to your property by direct access (cracks in the foundation, gaps in siding and around windows and doors).
These Lady Bugs are included in Economy's 44 covered pests under Pest Prevention Plus , our on-going maintenance program.

Choose Economy Exterminators for your comprehensive, professional and proven effective pest management program, Pest Prevention Plus.

Take the first step today and Schedule a Free Pest Inspection.


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