LADYBUGS
If Ladybugs really do bring luck, some very good
things are going to start happening in New Jersey.
Asian Lady Beetles, a slightly larger version of
the American Ladybug, have invaded the state. In
warmer weather they swarm around houses and buildings,
but cool temperatures seem to calm the social insects.
Ladybugs congregate on the sunny side of houses
and buildings, and may get into the inside of window
screens. Remove the screen and simply shake them
outside. The good news is that Ladybugs are harmless,
they do not bite or sting, and they eat pests.
The Ladybugs congregate in the fall to look for
warm or protected areas where they can hibernate.
They push their way into homes through cracks and
crevices, but they should disappear with the first
hard frost. They hibernate until spring.
Exterminators and other pest experts have been
besieged with calls from residents concerned about
the bugs, but the best advice seems to be to leave
the little critters alone.
Experts advise that if the insects get into your
house in large numbers, the best defense is to simply
vacuum them up. A state agricultural expert asks
that they then be released outside.
The Asian breed is similar to the common Ladybug,
a small winged beetle with or without black spots
on its orange, red or yellow shell. Endeared to
millions by the children’s rhyme, “Ladybug,
Ladybug fly away home”, the tiny insect ranks
right up there with the praying mantis as New Jersey’s
favorite bug. Folk lore even says Ladybugs are good
luck.
<<
Back to the main list |
