Ladybug Identification
What are ladybugs?
Ladybugs are domed-shaped insects with a red and black color pattern that are among the most striking insects we find in our yards and gardens. They play an essential role by feeding on and reducing populations of aphids, whiteflies, and other garden pests. Ladybugs are well-loved by gardeners and farmers because they help protect their crops from damage, but like any other insects, when ladybugs decide to move into our homes, they are unwelcome.
Are ladybugs dangerous?
The problem with ladybugs is not that they are dangerous, but that they move into our homes in such large numbers. If one or two ladybugs move into our home, there wouldn’t be much of an issue, but it becomes a huge issue when thousands migrate inside. Not many people feel comfortable sharing their homes with so many bugs. Also, if ladybugs are getting into your home, so can many other types of bugs.
Why do I have a ladybug problem?
Ladybugs are pests that don’t do well in the cold. That is why in the late fall, when the weather begins to cool off a bit, they move inside our warm structures. When ladybugs live in our yards, it is easy for them to find their way to our homes, attracted by the heat from the sun hitting its exterior walls. As they move up the walls, they move indoors through openings they discover.
Common entry points for these pests include the following:
- Holes in windows and door screens
- Damage door and window trim
- Cracks in the foundation
- Gaps around utilities
- Holes along the roofline or at roof intersections
- Chimneys and vents
Where will I find ladybugs?
Ladybugs are most problematic on properties with gardens, areas of vegetation, and wooded areas that house many pests that ladybugs like to feed on. Living and feeding in our yards give them easy access to our homes and garages when the weather cools. When ladybugs move inside from our yards, they will move throughout our homes, congregating around windows sills, in wall voids, and attic spaces.
How do I get rid of ladybugs?
Keep ladybugs out of your Mississippi home or business by partnering with McCary Pest Control. We will work with you to rid your property of ladybugs and other common household pests through our eco-friendly products and reliable services. For over 50 years, we have been helping families maintain homes free of nuisance and dangerous pests.
To learn more about keeping ladybugs and other pests out of your Tupelo area home or business, give McCary Pest Control a call!
How can I prevent ladybugs in the future?
Partnering with a professional is key to ensuring that the pests on your property are identified accurately, and effective treatments are performed so a re-infestation won't occur.
The following tips are additional ways you can help to protect your property from ladybugs:
- Caulk gaps in the foundation, around windows and doors, and along the roofline to help keep ladybugs out.
- Seal spaces around utilities and install door sweeps.
- Make sure screens in windows and doors are secure and free of tears.
- Seal openings around chimneys and always keep a cap on them.
- Place gardens a distance away from the outside walls of your home.
- Leave a barrier between shrubs and your home’s exterior.
Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.
