How Much Do You Know About Ladybugs?

How Much Do You Know About Ladybugs?

Asian Lady Beetles, commonly called Ladybugs, are often thought of as friendly, helpful insects. But how much do you really know about this aphid? Take our short quiz to find out.

1. Ladybugs aren’t actually bugs.

True. The history of how they got their name is somewhat complicated, but what America usually calls a Ladybug is actual the Asian Lady Beetle. This dome-backed insect is in fact a beetle, not a bug. In Europe they are referred to as Ladybird Beetles.

2. To tell how old a Ladybug is, count its spots.

False. A Ladybug’s spots have nothing to do with its age, but it’s still fun to count them! You may be able to tell which species it is by noticing the number and position of the markings, for example.

3. Ladybugs bleed from their knees.

True. (Weird, we know, but true!) If a Ladybug is startled, a yucky, foul-smelling fluid seeps from its leg joints. It leaves a yellow stain and is used to deter potential predators. It also uses its bright colors to keep predators away, as the bright red signals toxicity.

4. Ladybugs aren’t harmful, so I don’t have to worry about them.

True, and false. Asian Lady Beetles are beneficial to many plants because they love to eat plant pests—up to 50 aphids per day. However, unlike other species of Ladybugs, the Asian Lady Beetle has been known to swarm and even bite. They also like to seek shelter in masses, thus becoming very unwelcome guests for homeowners despite their fun and friendly appearance. If you think you have more of these critters than you’re comfortable with — and especially if you find them indoors—you may want to take preventative measures. Seal all exterior gaps and cracks around windows and doors and other points of access. Comprehensive prevention can be difficult, however, and the best way to protect your property is to call Pointe Pest Control today.