| Scientific name | Harmonia axyridis |
|---|---|
| Group | Beetles |
| Size | 5–8 mm (up to about 0.31 in) |
| Colors | Orange, Red and Black |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere and Garden or plants |
| Most active | Fall and Winter |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The Asian lady beetle is a small member of the beetles group. Hard wing covers that meet in a straight line down the back. Check for these three 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
About this bug
An imported lady beetle that ranges from pale orange to red with anywhere from zero to 19 spots. In fall it gathers in large numbers on sunny walls and slips indoors to spend the winter.
You'll usually find Asian lady beetles indoors and in gardens and on plants. They are most active in fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
They can give a mild pinch and release a yellow, smelly fluid that stains, but they carry no disease.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
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.
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.
What to do about it
- Seal gaps around windows, doors, siding and utility lines before fall
- Vacuum indoor beetles instead of crushing them to avoid stains and odor
- Use a light trap in attics or rooms where they gather
Read the full guide: how to get rid of Asian lady beetles.
Bugs that look similar
Color: Asian Lady Beetles are orange, red and black; seven-spotted ladybugs are red and black.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Asian lady beetle look like?
Orange to red dome-shaped body with a variable number of spots. Adults measure 5–8 mm (up to about 0.31 in).
Does the Asian lady beetle bite or sting?
It can bite. It does not sting. They can give a mild pinch and release a yellow, smelly fluid that stains, but they carry no disease.
Where do Asian lady beetles live?
Asian Lady Beetles live indoors and in gardens and on plants.
When are Asian lady beetles most active?
Mostly in fall and winter.