Close up of a Ladybug. Interstate Pest Management serving Portland OR & Vancouver WA talks about 8 Facts Wikipedia Won’t Tell You about Ladybugs.

Ladybugs

Ladybugs, also called lady beetles or ladybird beetles, are beloved insects around the world. In many cultures, they’re even considered good luck.

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Description

 Size1 to 7 centimeters
 ColorRed, orange, yellow or brown with dark markings.
 Body Structuresmall, round insects with six legs and a shiny body.
 CharacteristicsNot all ladybugs have spots, however, entomologists believe that most of the insects share this trait as a defense mechanism, warning predators that they taste bad and could be poisonous.
 Habitat & BehaviorLadybugs are considered important insects in agricultural areas because they consume plant-eating insects like aphids, mealybugs, mites, and scale insects that typically harm crops and plants. That being said, there are a few species of ladybugs that can be destructive to plants themselves, including the Mexican bean beetle and the squash beetle.
Ladybug populations tend to grow during the spring and summer months. In the fall and winter, lady beetles seek protected places to live including leaves, rocks, timber, and occasionally buildings and homes.
 Commonly ActiveSpring / Summer
 Risks of InfestationsWhile most ladybugs don’t pose major health threats to humans, there are a few reasons why you should prevent the entry of these insects into your home:

  • Some species of ladybugs are known to aggravate asthma and cause allergic reactions.
  • Ladybugs secrete a yellow, defensive liquid with a foul smell that can stain surfaces it comes into contact with.
  • Some species of ladybugs can have toxic effects on pets if eaten or ingested.

Ladybugs stick together to hibernate in the winter. If one ladybug gets into your house, it’s likely that many others will as well, causing a general nuisance to you and your family.