Lady Beetle Identification and Property Tips

Lady beetles, often called ladybugs, include many useful predators of garden pests. The concern around homes is usually seasonal entry by beetles seeking shelter.

Identification and habits

Color and spot patterns vary; the number of spots does not show age. Multicolored Asian lady beetles can gather on buildings and move inside to overwinter. Finding them near windows during a warm spell does not necessarily mean they reproduced indoors.

What to do at your property

Check screens and accessible exterior openings before fall gatherings begin. Gently vacuum indoor beetles and dispose of the contents promptly rather than crushing them on walls or fabrics. Photograph the insects and note the busiest side of the house. Ask whether entry repairs or selected exterior prevention fit the situation.

Photograph the pest clearly and note where and when it appeared. Ask Plank about identification and whether inspection, prevention or selected treatment is appropriate. The service scope and any follow-up are confirmed for your property.

Reference: University of Maryland Extension: multicolored Asian lady beetle.

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Photo: Scott Bauer / USDA Agricultural Research Service, Asian multicolored lady beetle, public domain.