Biting Ladybug Lookalikes Will Invade Indiana & Kentucky Homes Soon

Growing up in Kentucky, I can honestly say that I never once encountered a stinkbug. Living just across the river in Southern Indiana is a different story. It seems like every summer, the plague of the stink bug wreaks havoc on our home. Thankfully, stinkbugs don't do much except find their way into tiny crevices in my home and scare the beejebbies out of me when they fly around my head.

I also remember being a kid and always seeing cute little ladybugs in the yard. But when I grew up, I noticed they also invaded my home, were no longer red, and their spots looked different. I chalked it up to all ladybugs being different but it turns out they are a totally different insect.

What Does a Ladybug Look Like?

A true North American Ladybug is native to the States. They are good insects and eat other insects that we consider pests. They are usually bright red with small spots and don't bite.

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What Does an Asian Lady Beetle Look Like?

On the other hand, the Asian Lady Beetle, though a "cousin" to the Ladybug, is an invasive insect that isn't nearly as pleasant. The Asian Lady Beetles range from yellow to bright red and have white cheek and head spots. Ladybugs are typically rounder and smaller than Asian lady beetles.

They were originally brought to the US in 1910 to help control pests and were intentionally released by the Department of Agriculture into multiple states to control aphids and scale pests.

If they are threatened they release a stinky gas that will stain and will also bite. Oh, and like the stinkbug, Asian Lady Beetles are attracted to warmth, light, and the indoors so when it starts to get cold out, they will take refuge in your home with you. They will eat pesty bugs but are considered a threat to our native species as they compete for the same food source and will even eat younger ladybugs.

What to Do If You Find an Asian Lady Beetle in Your Home?

It's nice and toasty out now but before we know it, the weather will cool off and Asian ladybugs will be looking for a warm winter retreat. They can live up to three years old but thankfully don't reproduce indoors. If you find these pests in your home, don't smash it. Pheramones are released and they will attract more Asian Lady Beetles. Instead, you can take them outside, vacuum them up, or put them in a ziplock bag and dispose of them. Wear gloves when handling because they will bite. If they are outside on your home, you can use a hose to wash them away. If you use pesticides, make sure you use ones that are for in-home use and are safe for humans and pets.