The nine-spotted ladybug is well-known in New York. It’s the state insect, but it’s also endangered. Since it has various threats, ranging from non-native species to an assortment of pathogens, it’s now on the protected insect list.
If you’ve ever seen these bugs, then you’re familiar with their bright coloring. However, they’re not to be confused with the Asian lady beetle.
Although they look similar, they have variations to consider. Asian lady beetles were once welcomed visitors, as they eat aphids. However, they are now invasive pests. Here are the differences.
Nine-Spotted Ladybug vs Asian Lady Beetle
It’s important to pay attention to the size of these insects.
Nine-spotted ladybug beetles are smaller than Asian lady beetles, but only by a couple of millimeters.
The color of each insect also plays a role in distinguishing the two. If you see a bright red bug, it’s most likely a ladybug. Asian lady beetles vary in color. Some are red, but they can also be orange and tan.
The spots on these two insects also matter. If you look at a ladybug’s wing covers, they will always have spots on them. If you see an Asian lady beetle, however, they may not have spots. Whenever you see a bug that resembles a ladybug but doesn’t have any spots, it’s an Asian lady beetle.
You should also consider the insect’s shape. Ladybugs are rounder than Asian lady beetles. Asian lady beetles more closely resemble an oval and are longer than the common ladybug.
There is one way to definitely determine a ladybug from an Asian lady beetle. All you have to do is look for the letter “M.” Asian lady beetles always have this unique marking on their head, and it closely resembles the letter “M.” Although the appearance of this marking varies from insect to insect, they all have this trait.
Do Ladybugs Carry Disease?
There aren’t any reported diseases that ladybugs carry. They can pinch or even bite you, but you shouldn’t have to worry about them spreading any kind of disease this way. They also don’t bring any diseases into your home.
The only way ladybugs can pose a health threat is if you have allergies. Although these insects are beneficial, when it gets cold out, they can swarm in warm, dry areas, especially your home. Once they find small ways of entering your house, you can quickly have an infestation on your hands.
Are Asian Lady Beetles Carry Dangerous?
Asian lady beetles, although nuisances, aren’t known to carry disease. They also don’t infest any wood and won’t eat your textiles, which means they won’t destroy fabrics within your home.
Additionally, they aren’t known to cause any property damage and don’t pose any real threat. They also don’t sting.
They can bite, however. They do this when searching for food or moisture. These bites can break the surface of your skin and cause irritation, so don’t handle them with your bare hands. When in doubt,
a professional can help you control a pest infestation.
How to Prevent These Pests
Pest prevention starts with proactive measures. For example, check your home’s exterior for any gaps or cracks. If you’re unsure of what to look for,
a professional pest removal company can inspect your property.
It’s important to focus on windows, doors, siding, chimneys, vents, soffits, and any other openings where pests can infiltrate your home. This also includes conduits, pipes, and utility wires. If your screens are damaged, replace them or patch these holes to keep pests out.
If these insects have already made their way inside your home, you can remove them if your vacuum has a HEPA filter. Empty the vacuum outside so the insects are moved far from your home. You can also sweep up any beetles and place them outside.
Professional Pest Removal
If you have a nine-spotted ladybug infestation or find that Asian lady beetles are becoming a nuisance, professional pest removal services can help. Although these insects don’t pose a threat to humans, they can swarm your home when temperatures drop. Since the nine-spotted ladybug is endangered, you should always defer to the professionals.
Serene Property Services has the knowledge and experience to handle all your pest control needs. If you’re in Sussex County, NJ, or Warwick, NY,
contact us today to discuss a custom pest prevention plan.
