Asian Lady Beetles vs. Ladybugs
You can identify a ladybug by its markings and size. There are several different species, with most sporting red shells and various numbers of black spots. Their heads tend to be black with small white “cheeks.” Ladybugs are typically rounder and smaller than Asian lady beetles if you look at them side-by-side. Asian lady beetles also have larger white “cheek” markings and have more white on their heads overall. A sure way to distinguish between an Asian lady beetle and a ladybug is to look at the spot where the head meets the wings. If the bug in question has a black ‘M’ marking in that spot, that’s a telltale sign you’re dealing with an invasive species. Asian lady beetle shell color can range from light orange to bright red, so most will have a similar color to a ladybug. Asian lady beetles, which sometimes resemble yellow ladybugs, can sneak into your home through cracks or holes when it gets cold outside. Ladybugs won’t do that. Light attracts the pests, so they’ll often congregate on siding on the south side of a building, around door frames, and in windows. They may bite by scraping the skin they land on, which feels like a pinprick but won’t cause any real damage. When threatened, Asian beetles release a stinky yellow substance that can stain surfaces and trigger allergic reactions. While it’s unusual, Asian lady beetles can infest dogs’ mouths. If a dog happens to snap up some beetles, the insects may attach themselves to the roof of your pet’s mouth. This won’t always mean a trip to the emergency vet, though the beetles will usually need to be pried off. However, if swallowed, the insects can irritate a dog’s gastrointestinal tract, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. So make sure to keep your pets away from Asian lady beetles and check their mouths periodically.
How to Control Asian Lady Beetles
The best way to keep Asian lady beetles out of your home is by sealing and patching potential entrance points. In addition, close up any gaps around windows, doors, and siding to minimize risk. The good news is that if they do get into your home, Asian lady beetles won’t reproduce indoors and will make their exit in spring. To safely get rid of Asian lady beetles in your home: Sticky glue traps kept out of reach of small children and pets are a safe option for more minor infestations. Outdoors, you can clear them off the areas the beetles usually congregate with a broom or a strong spray of water from a power washer or hose. Then scrub down the area with soapy water; the pests most likely won’t return because the soap smell overpowers the pheromones that attract more beetles to the location.
