Lost Ladybugs
Have you found ladybugs in your home this fall? As temperatures drop, the Asian ladybug, Harmonia axyridis becomes an unwelcome houseguest in many homes. Asian ladybugs invade homes at this time of year searching for protected sites to overwinter. The Asian ladybug is relatively new to the United States – in their native home, Asian ladybugs spend the winter months in clusters, protected from weather in cliffs. But here in the United States, houses are the next best thing.
Viewer Tip: If you find Asian ladybugs in your home this fall, there are a few ways you can control them without spraying pesticides.
- Vacuum or sweep up the beetles daily. Dispose the beetles well away from the building, as these insects are strong fliers and will readily return.
- Purchase or build your own ladybug trap. Once captured release them outside.
- Locate entry points and seal up cracks and crevices to help reduce their numbers indoors. Window screens and doors should be tight-fitting.
You can also help scientists studying the status of native ladybugs species – across North America, ladybug species distribution is changing. Several native ladybugs that were once very common have become extremely rare over the past 20 years, while ladybugs from other places have greatly increased their numbers and range. This is happening very quickly and scientists don’t know how, why or what impact it will have on ladybug diversity. Lend scientists at Cornell and South Dakota State Universities a hand by helping them chart the progress of native ladybug species in the face of the Asian ladybug invasion. The Lost Ladybug Project is asking you to join them in finding out where all the ladybugs have gone by taking photos of ladybugs you see in your home or community. For more information on how to submit your ladybug photos visit www.lostladybug.org.
Season: Fall
This information is provided by the Georgia Conservancy. Learn more at www.georgiaconservancy.org
(Sources: Garland, K. “A Houseful of Ladybugs.” The Georgia Conservancy)
