As the seasons begin to change and the weather cools off, you will likely see pesky little critters making their way indoors.
While ladybugs may be blamed for wintertime infestations, it’s actually a similar-looking relative, the Asian lady beetle, that is to blame. Both hibernate during winter and reappear in the spring, which is also a common time for infestations. In the fall, they are drawn to warmth and light, which is why they hang around your home, according to Iowa State University.
While red ladybugs are considered harmless and a benefit to gardens, the Asian lady beetle is regarded as a nuisance. Here’s what to know about preventing the Asian lady beetle from entering your home and causing trouble.
What are Asian lady beetles?
Harmonia axyridis, also known as the Asian lady beetle, is a relatively new arrival to this country. It’s native to Asia, where it lives in trees and fields, feeding on aphids and scale insects. The first U.S. field populations were discovered in Louisiana in 1988. Since then, the beetle has spread its range to cover most of the U.S. and parts of Canada.
What is the difference between ladybugs and Asian lady beetles?
While both are part of the Coccinellidae insect family, their appearance is the biggest difference.
Ladybugs in Iowa are typically bright red or orange, while the Asian lady beetle can appear red, orange or tan. Asian lady beetles usually have a black “M” or “W” marking on the white area behind their heads, while ladybugs lack this marking, according to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.
Are Asian lady beetles harmful?
The beetles do not feed or reproduce indoors, and they cannot attack the house structure, furniture or fabrics, according to Iowa State University.
They also won’t sting you or carry diseases. Lady beetles don’t feed on people, though they may pinch exposed skin and can leave a slimy smear and distinct odor when squashed. The odor generally prevents predators from eating lady beetles, but the fluid may stain walls and fabrics in homes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Can Asian lady beetles be beneficial?
The beetles effectively control bug populations, like aphids and scale insects, that can damage plants and gardens. Asian lady beetles eat these insects, serving as a natural way to control pests in gardens during the fall.
How do I get rid of Asian lady beetles?
Sealing exterior gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other entry points before the beetles appear can prevent unwanted entry, Iowa State University noted. Iowa State also noted that spraying pyrethroid insecticides such as permethrin or esfenvalerate on the outside of buildings when the beetles appear may help prevent pest entry, especially for large infestations.
For long-term problem solving, plant trees that will grow up to shade the south and west sides of the house. The most practical control for beetles already inside is to vacuum or sweep them up and discard them.
USA TODAY network reporter Jordan Green contributed to this report.
Cooper Worth is a service/trending reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at cworth@gannett.com or follow him on X @CooperAWorth.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: These insects are crawling indoors. Here’s how to get rid of Asian lady beetles.
Reporting by Cooper Worth, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
