Ladybirds, called ladybugs in North America, are small, round beetles often with bright red or yellow wing cases and black spots. Many are important predators of garden and crop pests.
Interesting facts
- When threatened, ladybirds release drops of bitter, yellow fluid from their leg joints.
- Their bright colours warn predators that they taste bad.
- The number of spots does not show a ladybird’s age.
- The invasive harlequin ladybird has spread across Europe and North America, outcompeting native species.
- Ladybirds gather in large groups to hibernate.
- The name comes from ‘Our Lady’s bird’, a reference to the Virgin Mary.
Behaviour
Ladybirds hunt aphids on plants. In autumn, they cluster in sheltered places such as tree bark, window frames and sheds to survive the winter.
Breeding and young
Females lay clusters of eggs near aphid colonies. The larvae are voracious predators and pupate after a few weeks.
Threats and conservation
Pesticides, habitat loss and competition from invasive ladybirds.
Where to see it
- Gardens and parks in spring and summer
- Nettle patches and rose bushes with aphids
- Meadows and hedgerows
- Sheltered crevices in winter
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
