Asian lady beetles are invasive insects who tend to infest homes in large groups. They are known by many names—pumpkin, harlequin, southern, Japanese, and even simply the “many-named” ladybird—but perhaps the most fitting is “Halloween lady beetle.” These pests tend to show up in October, and though they look like harmless ladybugs, an Asian lady beetle invasion is all trick and no treat. Once they make their way inside, they camp out for the winter in walls and crevices, often not emerging until spring.
Though usually dormant in winter, you may spot masses of these beetles hanging out in the corners of your windows seeking warmth. It may seem easy to get rid of them when they hang out in such large groups, but there are challenges. These pesky pests smell foul when you crush them and leave behind a yellowish stain. Oh, and did we mention they can bite humans when provoked?
If these tricksters have welcomed themselves into your home, call St. Charles County and ST. LOUIS exterminators McCarthy Pest & Termite Control to send these unwanted winter guests packing!
Asian Lady Beetles vs. Ladybugs
Asian lady beetles may look like ladybugs, but they are actually their far more invasive twin. Both eat smaller pests, but ladybugs prefer to take shelter outdoors, whereas the bothersome lady beetle seeks indoor spaces to overwinter. How can you spot the difference between the two insects? While ladybugs are red and round, lady beetles can range in color from orange to red and have a longer body. They also have a distinctive “M” shape on their foreheads. Most importantly, if you see large clusters inside your home, they’re definitely “Halloween” beetles.
Asian Lady Beetle Origins
Though native to eastern Asia, these beetles are now among the most invasive household pests worldwide. They were originally brought to Europe and North America to help manage the aphid populations wreaking havoc on crops. Then in the late 1980s, they were found in the wild of New Orleans and quickly spread across the nation. Now, they’ve become an out-of-control pest all their own.
How to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles
There are two approaches to getting rid of Asian lady beetles: prevention and removal. Once the beetles are inside your home for the winter, all you can do is remove them. Taking preventative measures helps ensure they don’t come back the next year.
One of the most effective methods of removing these beetles from your home is with a vacuum. This can be tricky, though—if you’re not careful, you can trigger the pest’s reflex bleeding and end up with a smelly yellow residue on the removal surface or inside your vacuum. It’s better to bag the beetles inside your vacuum for easier release or disposal.
To prevent another invasion, you’ll need to seal all entry points to your home. This includes doors, windows, screens, cracks, and more. This can be a tedious, time-consuming process, and is most effective when implemented with the help of professionals.
Asian Lady Beetle Control by McCarthy Pest & Termite Control
McCarthy Pest & Termite Control performs comprehensive Asian lady beetle removal, which includes preventative measures. We offer a 6-point home pest control inspection process. This involves a thorough evaluation of the interior and exterior of your home so we can block these pests from creeping inside in the future.
Call us today to schedule a personalized treatment and get rid of the pests in and around your home.
