Ladybugs and Asian lady beetles are two insects that, at first glance, seem nearly identical. 
Yet, while they may look alike, there are some key differences between these beetles that matter, especially if you’ve ever found yourself wondering why one is more of a welcome garden guest and the other an unwanted household pest.
Spotting the Difference
When trying to tell the difference between a ladybug and an Asian lady beetle, the first thing most people notice is their appearance. Both are round, dome-shaped beetles with vibrant red or orange coloring, often adorned with black spots. But if you look closer, there are subtle distinctions.
Ladybugs, also known as ladybird beetles, generally have a more consistent appearance. They are bright red or orange with black spots and typically have a smooth, shiny exoskeleton. Their spots are often uniform in size and shape, and the number of spots can vary depending on the species.
Asian lady beetles, on the other hand, can be more variable in their appearance. While they also sport red or orange coloring, their shade can range from pale yellow to dark orange. The number of spots on their backs is inconsistent, with some Asian lady beetles having many spots, few spots, or none.
One distinguishing feature that can help you identify an Asian lady beetle from ladybugs is the presence of a distinctive “M” or “W”-shaped mark (depending on your perspective) just behind their head – you’ll find this on the white area of their pronotum, the area between the beetle’s head and body.
Ladybug vs. Asian Lady Beetle Behavior: Identifying The Difference
One of the biggest differences between ladybugs and Asian lady beetles is their behavior, particularly how they interact with their environment and your home.
Ladybugs are beloved by gardeners because they are voracious predators of garden pests like aphids. A single ladybug can consume up to 5,000 aphids in its lifetime, making them a natural and environmentally friendly form of pest control. Ladybugs generally prefer to stay outdoors where their food supply is abundant.
Asian lady beetles, while also beneficial in the garden by eating pests, have a tendency to become a nuisance when the weather turns colder. Unlike ladybugs, Asian lady beetles seek out warm places to pass the winter, which is why you may find them in your home. Once inside, these beetles can be difficult to remove – and may leave behind yellowish stains on walls or furniture when squished!
Seasonal Differences: Summer Friends, Winter Foes
The time of year plays a significant role in whether you’re dealing with a friendly ladybug or an intrusive Asian lady beetle.
Ladybugs are primarily active during the warmer months when they can happily hunt in your garden. As the weather cools, ladybugs seek out natural shelters, such as under leaves or in crevices in trees, to hibernate through the winter – rarely do they invade homes.
Asian lady beetles, on the other hand, begin to seek out warmth as soon as the temperature starts to drop in the fall. They are notorious for gathering in large numbers on the sunny sides of buildings and eventually finding their way inside through cracks and crevices. Once indoors, they become a significant nuisance as they seek out dark, quiet places to hibernate, often in large groups.
Impact on Humans: Garden Helpers vs. Household Pests
Ladybugs are generally considered beneficial insects and welcome additions to gardens. They pose no harm to humans, pets, or property and are often seen as a sign of good luck.
Asian lady beetles, however, can be problematic when they move indoors. While they do not cause structural damage like termites or rodents, they can be irritating to eliminate. When threatened or squished, Asian lady beetles can release a foul-smelling yellowish fluid, known as reflex bleeding, which can stain walls, furniture, and fabrics.
Additionally, some people may have allergic reactions to Asian lady beetles, experiencing symptoms like eye irritation or respiratory issues.
How to Keep Asian Lady Beetles Out of Your Home
Preventing an invasion of Asian lady beetles requires a combination of sealing entry points and reducing their attraction to your home.
Seal Entry Points
Start by sealing any cracks or crevices around windows, doors, siding, and utility pipes. This will help prevent Asian lady beetles from finding their way inside.
Install Screens
Ensure that all windows and vents are properly screened to keep beetles out while allowing fresh air in.
Use Light Traps
Asian lady beetles are attracted to light, so you can use light traps to capture them and reduce their numbers indoors.
Vacuum Them Up
If you already have an infestation, the best way to remove Asian lady beetles without causing a mess is to vacuum them up. Just be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag afterward, as the beetles can leave behind a foul odor.
Reduce Outdoor Attractions
Asian lady beetles are attracted to bright buildings and warm areas. Consider using yellow or sodium vapor bulbs for outdoor lighting, as they are less attractive to these pests.
Contact Your Local Pest Control Services
For thorough safeguarding, contact your local Bug Out team to safeguard your home from beetle pests. Whether it’s Asian Lady beetles that have infiltrated your property or another type of pest, our team of professional exterminators are trained to keep your home safe.
For more tips and tricks, check out our more comprehensive guide on how to get rid of beetles in your home.
Common Misconceptions With Other Beetles
It’s easy to mistake ladybugs, and Asian lady beetles for other beetles due to their similar size and coloration. However, there are distinct differences between these beetles and others, such as Japanese beetles.
Knowing these differences is crucial for proper identification and understanding of the roles these insects play in your garden or home.
Ladybug vs. Japanese Beetle
Japanese beetles are a major agricultural pest, known for their metallic green bodies and copper-colored wings. Unlike ladybugs, Japanese beetles are destructive to plants. They like feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits
The most significant difference lies in their impact on plants. Japanese beetles are notorious agricultural pests. They feed on various plants, including roses, grapes, and fruit trees. They often skeletonize the leaves by eating the tissue between the veins, leaving behind a lace-like pattern.
Not so sure what type of beetle you’re dealing with? Your pest problem could be another type of species that our beetle species page can help identify.
Ladybugs or Asian Lady Beetles – Which One’s in Your Home?
While both ladybugs and Asian lady beetles play important roles in controlling garden pests, their interactions with humans can be very different. Knowing the difference between Asian beetles, ladybugs, and other types of beetles can help you manage their presence more effectively in your home and garden.
If your infestation is hard to control, contact your local Bug Out team of beetle exterminators. Trust us to tackle your beetle pest issues and protect your home from unwelcome visitors!