Quick Asian Lady Beetle ID Summary
Asian lady beetles are orange to red (sometimes yellowish) beetles that look like ladybugs but can either have many spots or none at all. A common way to identify them is by a black “M” or “W” marking right behind the head on the white area. In Central Virginia, they’re most noticeable in fall when they gather on the sunny side of homes and slip inside to overwinter. Once inside, they’re often found around windows, in attics, and in wall voids. They can release a strong odor and may stain surfaces with a yellow fluid if crushed.
Common characteristics
- Body Size: 1/4 Inch (6 mm) or 1/5 inch (5 mm) wide
- Common Features : Head is black with white markings. Wings range from light orange to dark red, with multiple black spots
- Antennae: Yes
- Number of Legs: 6
- Wings: Yes
- Habitat: Crops, attics, wall voids and the side of buildings
Introduction To The Asian Lady Beetle
The Asian Lady Beetle is also called the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle (MALB), and it is not native to Central, VA.
The Asian Lady Beetle belongs to a group of beetles called Ladybugs.
Asian Lady Beetle activity peaks in October, with a second increase in activity in March.
They are semi-oval in shape, with a flat underside, and curved surface.
Asian Lady Beetles come in a variety of colors. Their wings can range from orange to dark red with black spots.
Sometimes, they will have black wings with yellow or orange spots.
The insect was first introduced to Virginia in 1993, and by the mid 90s they could be found around the United States.
Asian Lady Beetle Habitat
Asian Lady Beetles can be found throughout the state of Virginia.
This species of beetle is considered good for the environment as they prey on pests that eat crops. But, during October and March, when they are most active, they like to enter houses.
They will cluster in walls, crawl spaces, in attics, and outside your home on siding and trim. When they enter a residence they can appear in large numbers, making them a residential pest.
Sometimes, people have found their home covered in thousands of these insects.
Although they are more active in October and March, in the Fall they will try to enter your home through cracks in windows and doors, seeking a warm space to overwinter.
Asian Lady Beetle Dangers
The Unlike the dark red colored ladybugs you are used to, Asian Lady Beetles can bite. The bites are small, don’t seriously hurt humans and pets, and do not spread disease.
When they are handled or smushed, they will emit a foul odor and leave a yellow stain.
Even though they don’t post a direct threat to humans, if they get into your home in large numbers, they can stain walls, curtains, and clothing.
Controlling MALB: DIY Pest Control
Because Multi-Colored Asian Lady Beetles try to enter your home to overwinter, you will need to be proactive to ensure you don’t have an infestation. Sealing entry sites is the best way to keep them out. You should search your entire house, including the crawl space and attic.
Here is a small checklist for Virginia residents to control the beetles:
- Seal all windows and doors with weather stripping.
- Check attic and basement/crawl space for ways they can enter.
- Check utility and piping entering the house.
- Check window screens.
- Seal cracks and crevices in house siding.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up beetles.
If you do see the beetles. It might be enticing to smash them, or hit them with a fly swatter. Don’t do this because they will leave a yellowy-orangish stain.
If it’s a severe case you can use an insecticide, but use a broom and dustpan to avoid the beetles being crushed and leaving stains. Yet for the safest way to ensure your home stays free from infestation, we recommend calling your local pest control service.
Need Pest Control for Asian Lady Beetles?
Contact Greenshield Home & Pest Solutions for a free, same-day pest inspection. Our general pest control service covers beetles.