Indoor Invaders not Ladies
Uninvited lady beetles taking up residence inside
By: Robert N. Brewer, Jr. Extension Tips

A roaring fire in the hearth, coats and mittens hanging in the foyer and windblown leaves racing around outside are all signs that winter has arrived. Many Georgians may want to add "lady beetles on the ceilings" to that list.

Each winter, more and more Asian lady beetles, often called ladybugs, travel into homes seeking shelter from the cold. They may be beneficial in the garden, but they aren't typically welcome indoors.

Asian lady beetles are one of several species in Georgia. But they're the only one here with the annoying houseguest habit.

Lady beetles are the universal feel-good bugs, so it's unfortunate a few are becoming pests.

This pest-control encourages the use of beneficial insects such as lady beetles.

Lady beetles feed on aphids, an insect that can cause major damage to pecan trees, crape myrtles, roses and many other plants. When they're around to eat the aphids, homeowners may not need to spray insecticides.

UGA Cooperative Extension county agents are getting calls statewide about lady beetles. People aren't calling

to praise them for their aphid-eating skills.

Homeowners should actually show these lady beetles some gratitude. When you find

where they're coming into your home, you're

finding somewhere that cold air can come in,

too.

Owen recommends sweeping up the beetles and physically returning them outdoors.

During this temperature transition stage, they're just looking for a place to stay for the winter. We've never radio-collared

them to be sure, but chances are, the ones you sweep out aren't going to come backing.

If you do resort to physical removal. Lady beetles do have a defense mechanism. They can release yellow hemolymph, which is reflexive bleeding from their joints. It's a defensive response for you that can result in orange stains on your walls and furniture.