Asian Lady Beetle

Actual Size: 6 to 10 mm

Characteristics: Small, dome-shaped insects that are typically orange to reddish-orange with black spots, though some may have few or no spots.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes

Habitat: Asian lady beetles are commonly found outdoors on trees, crops, and plants where they feed on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. In cooler weather, they often move indoors seeking warmth and shelter in walls, attics, and window frames.

Habits:

These beetles are somewhat larger than regular ladybugs.
They have a noticeable dark “M” shape behind the head.
When threatened, they secrete a yellow colored, foul odor from their joints.

Asian Lady Beetles in Athens, GA

Introduced from Asia into the United States between 1978 and 1981, the multicolored Asian lady beetle was originally released to control aphids, scale, and other crop pests. Today, it is widely distributed throughout the nation. While they are helpful in outdoor environments, these beetles can become problematic when they enter structures in large numbers. They frequently overwinter in homes and buildings, often gathering indoors to escape cold weather. Once inside, large groups can be difficult to remove.

Asian Lady Beetle Habitat

This species is a voracious predator of crop pests and produces several generations each year. They play an important role in controlling agricultural pests outdoors. However, their tendency to aggregate and ability to enter structures often causes this insect to become a significant structural pest. Asian lady beetles can be found in attics, wall voids, on siding, inside closets, and are often attracted to light. In large infestations, hundreds or even thousands of beetles have been found in and on homes.

Asian Lady Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Asian lady beetles may bite, but their bite does not cause serious injury or spread disease to humans. When handled or crushed, they release a foul odor and can leave behind stains. In the fall, they search for protected areas around homes to overwinter, gathering in attics, wall voids, soffits, and cracks around door frames. Large indoor infestations can stain clothing and drapery. They cannot survive sub-freezing temperatures outdoors, but can persist inside heated structures. If an infestation occurs, it is best to contact a licensed beetle exterminator.