Asian Lady Beetles Facts & Information
Everything you need to know about Asian lady beetles
WHAT DO Asian lady beetles LOOK LIKE
Asian lady beetles are often mistaken for ladybugs. They definitely look a bit alike. So, knowing the difference between ladybugs and Asian lady beetles will help you determine which one you’re dealing with. Asian lady beetles are a little bigger than ladybugs – clocking in at about 7 mm long and 5.5 mm wide. While ladybugs are bright red with black spot, the color of Asian lady beetles can vary from red to orange, and even to tan, and they don’t always have those trademark black spots. Asian lady beetles are more oval-shaped, too. But the most distinct marking that will make it easy to identify an Asian lady beetle is the very visible M-shaped black marking on their otherwise white heads. The marking can vary in size, thickness, and shape, but it’s always there.
Where do Asian lady beetles live
Asian lady beetles usually live outside in forests, orchards, agricultural fields, and gardens where their food (aphids) is abundantly available. They will migrate inside homes and businesses through cracks and crevices or on shipments and deliveries should the weather get colder than they like. They will also, much like ladybugs, congregate on the sunbaked sides of homes or buildings for warmth. Once there, if they find a broken window screen or a crack in your foundation, they will happily march inside and bring their friends.
How did I get Asian lady beetles
You most likely have a slightly open window, a small rip in a screen, maybe a space around the window air conditioner you haven’t removed that isn’t tightly sealed or taped. Asian lady beetles really only need a small space to get in and once there, they bring their friends and enjoy your home and its safety from the colder weather. They can also easily sneak in on deliveries or packages – even on your coat sleeve. Exclusion work and proper home maintenance can help keep Asian lady beetles and many other pests out of your house.
What problems do Asian lady beetles cause
Asian lady beetles can bite, but it’s rare and it’s not dangerous. The biggest problem they cause is from the terrible smell and fluid they secrete when disturbed or crushed. Not only does it smell, but it can stain fabrics and even cause allergic reactions. And while they aren’t poisonous, should your cat or dog get excited and eat a bunch of them, they can suffer mouth irritation and ulcers. The secretions they let out are especially problematic to juices and wine. It will quickly ruin the flavor so orchards and food and beverage processing plants can be susceptible to problems from Asian lady beetles. The loss of revenue from an infestation could be significant.
How can I prevent Asian lady beetles
Exclusion work is the best way to keep out Asian lady beetles and many other pests. Caulk around pipes and fill in cracks in your foundation. Make sure all screens are fully functioning with no tears or rips. Keep all windows and doors closely tightly and try not to leave them open “just for a minute” while you bring in the groceries or accept a delivery. A trained eye will see way more spots Asian lady beetles may be getting in so bringing in a pest control professional to not only inspect but perform the exclusion work is your best bet.
WHY OPC FOR ASIAN LADY BEETLE CONTROL
We’re passionate about keeping Asian lady beetles and other overwintering pests out of your home because we live and work here – it’s our neighborhood, too. We’ve been keeping homes and businesses in Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, and Wisconsin safe from pests since 1972. OPC Pest Services has the experience you can trust.
Expert pest control since 1972
Quality Pro certified company
Satisfaction guarantee.
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