The Lady Bugs return to St. Charles County

November 20, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

The lady bugs are out and about in St. Charles County. And there are lots of them. You might want to say, “lady bug, lady bug, fly away home,” but they seem to have moved in.

The lady bugs seen recently are most likely the Asian lady beetle. The bug is a friend of gardeners and has been used intentionally in  agricultural areas to feed on aphids, mealybugs, scale and other soft-bodied insects infesting crops and plants.

These “lady bugs” can live for up to three years. They sport the traditional lady bug shape, and their shell colors range from beige to yellow to orange.

David Barylski of the St. Charles Master Gardeners* spoke with sccworlds.com. He said the reason residents notice these bugs in the fall is because “all the lady beetles are starting to swarm.” They will soon find spots, usually underground, and wait out the winter in a dormant state. They do not reproduce indoors during their hibernation period. 

Although it’s believed good luck to have a lady bug land on you, many lady bugs visiting at once can be annoying. If they are a problem indoors, just sweep them and release them outside. The problem is best prevented by repairing poorly fitted window screens and doors.

During the spring, when the weather becomes warmer, the beetles will become active and try to make their way outside in search of food.

The Asian lady beetle is not harmful, although some people may be allergic to them. They do not carry diseases and usually do not sting or bite. (Some people say they have been nipped.) However, if the bugs are squashed, they may emit a mild odor and can stain walls and fabrics.

*About the St. Charles County Master Gardeners: On Monday afternoons from 12:30—4:30, master gardeners are available to answer horticulture questions at the St. Charles County Extension Office. Just call 636-970-3000.

Copyright 2007 Neighbors About Town

 

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