GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — There are some distinct differences between the invasive Asian Ladybeetles that are invading our homes right now and the very beneficial native Ladybugs that we welcome to our gardens in summer.
Native Ladybugs
- Native ladybugs are beneficial insects in North American gardens, typically red with 11 black spots.
- They help protect crops by eating aphids and other pests.
Asian Lady Beetles
- Asian ladybeetles are invasive and can cause problems despite eating aphids.
- They gather in large groups, damage crops, and can invade homes, emitting an unpleasant odor.
Identifying the Differences
- Asian ladybeetles are usually orange or yellow rather than red and have an "M"-shaped mark on their heads. Native Ladybugs don’t have this M shape.
- Ladybugs have 11 spots, whereas the Asian Ladybeetles have either around 19 or none at all.
Managing Asian Ladybeetles
- Seal cracks around windows and doors to prevent entry.
- Remove air conditioners when not in use, especially on sunny sides.
- If they enter your home, sweep them into a jar or vacuum them carefully, avoiding staining.
- Use gloves to handle them, as they can bite.
- Avoid insecticides; focus on sealing entry points instead.
Attracting Native Ladybugs
- Plant a variety of flowers like calendulas, dandelions, yarrow and cosmos to attract them, as they seek pollen and prey.
- Leave fallen leaves until spring for ladybugs to overwinter.