Why are ladybirds entering your home? Discover why infestations happen, when they peak, and how to safely prevent ladybirds from returning.
There are many types of ladybird in the UK with more than 40 different species having been identified including the non-native Harlequin ladybird. Within the UK, it was first reported in the London area but is now rapidly spreading north and west.
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At present, it appears likely that the Harlequin ladybird will become widely established in the UK which could be detrimental to the native species as a result of feeding competition. Numbers of large ladybirds active on the outside of buildings, and sometimes entering buildings, may cause concern to residents.
The peak of this autumn activity is restricted to a few weeks only, but once inside wandering ladybirds may occur on mild days throughout the winter. When disturbed, the beetles produce a foul-smelling liquid, which may also stain fabrics, etc. They do no damage to the building itself. For properties that have regular problems with ladybirds entering the building, proofing of entry points will reduce future problems.
Ladybirds within buildings may be removed with a vacuum cleaner. Residual insecticides can be used to control ladybirds however be aware that where a non-native species may be hibernating, native species may be also.
Most species of ladybirds have the distinct spotted back
Most common colours vary from bright red, black or yellow with black, red, yellow or white spots
Size varies between species but no more than 12mm in length
Most species can be found almost everywhere in the UK as long as there is a reasonable food supply
Hibernation habits vary with species and they can often be found huddled together in large groups in sites that they will return to year after year
Both the adults and larvae of numerous species feed voraciously on highly destructive aphids
Almost immediately after emerging from hibernation the ladybirds are ready to mate
The female lays her eggs in a sheltered place (commonly on the underside of a leaf)
The eggs, yellow or orange in colour and laid in batches of up to 50 are about 1mm in length
Eggs will hatch within 10 days and the emerging larvae begin to feed, sometimes not even differentiating between the aphids, unhatched eggs or their siblings!
Large numbers of ladybirds entering homes is usually seasonal, most commonly in autumn. They are looking for warm, sheltered places to hibernate over winter, which is why they often gather on sunny walls before finding their way inside.
Ladybirds are not harmful to property and do not cause structural damage. However, when present in large numbers they can become a nuisance. Some species, such as the Harlequin ladybird, can release a yellow fluid that may stain surfaces and has an unpleasant smell.
The safest way to deal with ladybirds indoors is to gently remove them, often using a vacuum cleaner or by carefully collecting and releasing them outside. Avoid crushing them, as this can cause staining and odours.
Prevention focuses on proofing entry points such as gaps around windows, doors, and rooflines. Reducing access to warm, sheltered spaces is the most effective way to stop ladybirds entering in large numbers year after year.
The Harlequin ladybird is a non-native species that has become widespread across the UK. While not dangerous to humans, it can outcompete native species and is more likely to enter homes in large numbers, which is why itโs often the cause of household infestations.
