How to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles

Confirm you have Asian lady beetles

Correct identification matters, because the right fix for Asian lady beetles differs from the fix for their lookalikes. Adults measure 5–8 mm (up to about 0.31 in) and are usually orange, red and black. Look for these features:

• Orange to red dome-shaped body with a variable number of spots
• Black M- or W-shaped mark on the white area behind the head
• Clusters on south- and west-facing walls in fall

They are most often confused with seven-spotted ladybug. See the full Asian lady beetle profile for side-by-side details.

Why you have Asian lady beetles

Asian Lady Beetles come indoors looking for food, water, warmth or shelter. Gaps around doors, windows, pipes and utility lines give them easy ways in. Clutter, leaks and food left out let a small problem grow into an infestation. They are most active in fall and winter, so expect to see more of them then.

When you'll see Asian lady beetles

Asian Lady Beetles are most active in fall and winter. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.

Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere and garden or plants.

Step-by-step: getting rid of Asian lady beetles

Step 1: Seal gaps around windows

Seal gaps around windows, doors, siding and utility lines before fall. Keep notes on where you still see activity so you can focus your effort.

Step 2: Vacuum indoor beetles instead of crushing them to avoid stains

Vacuum indoor beetles instead of crushing them to avoid stains and odor. Combine this with the other steps rather than relying on it alone.

Step 3: Use a light trap in attics or rooms where they gather

Use a light trap in attics or rooms where they gather. Keep notes on where you still see activity so you can focus your effort.

Natural and low-toxicity options

These methods work well alongside the steps above and keep chemical use to a minimum:

• Vacuum insects and egg cases, then empty the canister outdoors right away.
• Wipe surfaces with soapy water to remove scent trails and residue.
• Place sticky traps to find out where activity is highest.
• Run a dehumidifier where damp areas attract them.

If you do use a pesticide, choose one labeled for this pest and the place you're treating, and follow the label exactly. The label is the law.

When to call a professional

Call a licensed pest control company if you still see Asian lady beetles after three to four weeks of steady effort, if they are spreading to several rooms, or if you share walls with neighbors who have the same problem.

How to keep Asian lady beetles from coming back

• Seal cracks and gaps with caulk and install door sweeps.
• Store food in sealed containers and take out trash often.
• Fix leaky pipes and faucets and keep basements dry.
• Trim shrubs and branches so they don't touch the house.
• Keep firewood, mulch and debris away from the foundation.

Safety notes

They can give a mild pinch and release a yellow, smelly fluid that stains, but they carry no disease.

Keep children and pets away from any traps, baits or treated areas.

About beetles

The Asian lady beetle is one of the beetles. Beetles go through complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (grub), pupa and adult. The larval stage often does the most feeding and damage, and it can last from a few weeks to several years depending on the species. Adults protect their flight wings under hard wing covers called elytra, which is why most beetles look armored and meet in a neat line down the back.

Look closely at larvae as well as adults. Grubs in soil, fuzzy larvae in closets and small worms in flour are all beetle larvae, and finding them tells you where the problem is centered.

Frequently asked questions