The Lady Bug Invasion

Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles were introduced into the United States in the late 1970s. They were brought here to help with the control of aphids, scale and other pests that do damage to crops.

The lady beetle population flourished over the years and the beetles began moving into houses and buildings in the fall to spend the winter out of the weather. Orange, red, or light brown with black spots and even occasionally black with red spots they are all the same species and all can be found indoors this time of year as they emerge from their winter resting place.

If these pests have moved in to your home it is best not to waste your time and money trying to kill them with over the counter sprays. The fact is that they can be a beneficial insect.

They eat the pests that can harm your garden. The downside are the stains on the walls, curtains, and upholstery if they die or are crushed while on these surfaces.

If you are experiencing a lady bug invasion the best thing to do is vacuum them up and release or dispose of them outside. Further control begins with sealing up the exterior to prevent the lady beetles from getting into the structure.