Danger Level: 1/5

Asian Lady Beetles

Harmonia axyridis

Asian lady beetles look similar to native ladybugs but have distinguishing features: a black "M" or "W" shape behind the head, and coloring ranging from pale orange to bright red with zero to many spo...

Quick Facts

Size5-8mm long
ColorOrange to red with variable spots
Lifespan2-3 years
Active SeasonsFall invasion, Spring emergence
Common LocationsSunny walls, Windows, Attics

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Identification

How to Identify Asian Lady Beetles

Quick Answer

Asian lady beetles look similar to native ladybugs but have distinguishing features: a black "M" or "W" shape behind the head, and coloring ranging from pale orange to bright red with zero to many spots. They congregate in much larger numbers than native species and bite more readily.

Asian lady beetles look similar to native ladybugs but have distinguishing features: a black "M" or "W" shape behind the head, and coloring ranging from pale orange to bright red with zero to many spots. They congregate in much larger numbers than native species and bite more readily.

Asian Lady Beetles - showing key features for identification
Behavior

Asian Lady Beetles Behavior & Habits

Understanding how asian lady beetles behave helps prevent infestations

Asian Lady Beetles behavior and habitat

Originally imported for pest control, Asian lady beetles have become nuisance pests themselves. In fall, massive aggregations form on warm, light-colored buildings before entering to overwinter. They can bite when handled (unlike native ladybugs) and release an unpleasant-smelling defensive secretion.

Dangers

Asian Lady Beetles Risks & Dangers

What asian lady beetles can do to your health and property

Health Risks

Asian lady beetles can bite—while not dangerous, it's surprisingly painful for their size. Their secretions can cause allergic reactions in some people, including respiratory issues when large numbers are present indoors.

Property Damage

Their secretions can stain light-colored surfaces and fabrics. Large die-offs attract other pests like carpet beetles.

Warning Signs

Signs of Asian Lady Beetles Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Orange or red beetles congregating on sunny walls
Beetles appearing inside on warm winter days
Yellow-orange staining on walls or curtains
Dead beetles in light fixtures
Mild biting when beetles are handled

Asian Lady Beetles in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Asian lady beetles are established throughout the Treasure Valley and cause significant nuisance problems in fall. South and west-facing light-colored homes experience the heaviest congregations. They're especially common in rural and semi-rural areas.

Our Solution

How We Eliminate Asian Lady Beetles

Professional treatment for complete elimination

Asian lady beetle control mirrors stink bug treatment: preventive exterior treatment in early fall, exclusion work, and interior vacuuming. The goal is preventing entry rather than killing beneficial beetles outdoors.

Prevention

How to Prevent Asian Lady Beetles

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation

1
Seal entry points before fall migration
2
Install screens and door sweeps
3
Avoid light-colored exterior paint (attracts more)
4
Vacuum beetles inside without crushing
5
Schedule preventive fall treatment
FAQ

Asian Lady Beetles Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

Are these ladybugs or something else?

Asian lady beetles are related to ladybugs but are more variable in color, have an "M" shape behind their head, congregate in huge numbers, and can bite. Native ladybugs don't invade homes in large numbers.

Related

Similar Pests

Learn about other pests in this category

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