What are ladybugs?
Ladybugs are also referred to as ladybird beetles and lady beetles. They are round insects, 1/31 – 3/8 inches in size, with 6 legs and two antennae. Ladybugs are typically red or orange with black polka dots, but can be different colors in different geographic regions. Their unique coloring and pattern are a biological form of defense with the purpose of deterring predators, indicating that they don’t taste good. Although many consider them a sign of good luck, you can't always judge a book by its cover. When seen here and there, ladybugs aren't usually a concern for homeowners. Ladybug activity crosses the line into a larger issue when they invade homes in very large numbers. This activity usually takes place with the onset of fall, which is September in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Lady beetles, ladybugs, or ladybird beetles are among the most visible and best known beneficial predatory insects. Over 450 species are found in North America. Some are native and some have been introduced from other countries. When they're not infesting your home, ladybugs live shrubs, gardens, and fields. They are in incredibly common pest in our area which makes your home very vulnerable to ladybug activity.
Why do I have ladybugs?
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Ladybugs enter homes in the late fall as they are searching for a place to stay warm during the impending cold weather months. They belong to a category called “overwintering pests” which is very suiting to their predictable pattern of activity. An overwintering pest is most literally a pest that stays indoors over the winter. Other overwintering pests include stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and cluster flies. Ladybugs find tiny cracks and crevices around your home where they can squeeze their 0.3 inch bodies through. Microscopic and overlooked entry points are easy access points for ladybugs. Once they determine that your house is suitable, they release pheromones that attract other ladybugs to follow. It's not always the case that if you have ladybugs overwintering in your home, your neighbors do too. Unlike other pests that are native invaders, ladybugs often choose a single home and return there year after year. There is not much you can do to predict where they will go.
How can I get rid of ladybugs?
Once you have a ladybug infestation, professional pest control is needed. They are too numerous and too far within the walls that trying DIY solutions will not entirely solve the problem and are a waste of money and effort. Once ladybugs begin to hibernate in man made structures, it's too late to try to eliminate them entirely on your own. Although ladybugs do not post significant health concerns to humans, they may emit an unpleasant scent and leave yellow stains from the secretions they emit when disturbed. It is also possible that their presence may set off your allergies, and if handled, they will sometimes bite to defend themselves. Because they are typically recurring annual pests, it's suggested that you get a preventative control plan to significantly reduce the amount of ladybugs in your home. While professional pest control cannot eliminate or prevent 100% of ladybugs, preventive services can provide much needed relief.
How can I prevent ladybugs?
Photo Credit: Eastern Daily Press
Keeping common entry points such as small cracks and crevices in the foundation of your home around piping, windows, and doors sealed will help prevent ladybug infestations. Fix torn window screens and replace broken dryer vents to block additional access. Once ladybugs enter your home, there isn't much you can do to get rid of them. By killing the ladybugs you see, you are not eliminating the bulk of the pests that could be indoors and out of sight. Professional pest control is needed to prevent ladybugs.
How can Cooper help?
Cooper Pest Solutions can treat your home to prevent ladybugs before they enter. Our Ladybug Prevention Program beings with an initial treatment between September 1-15th. This time frame provides you with the highest reduction and level of prevention possible. Ladybug control services performed after September 15th will be less effective. It's important to note that homes with recurring ladybug issues will not see a 100% elimination. This is not possible no matter what other pest control companies tell you. However, our program significantly reduces the amount of ladybugs you will see. We focus on knocking down the population as they come in contact with common entry points because there is no way to target their breeding source.
How soon can you get here?
At Cooper Pest Solutions, our goal is to provide same day or next day service and inspections. Please give us a call at 1-800-949-2667 or fill out the contact form on this page to set up a free, no-obligation estimate or to begin the Ladybug Prevention Program.
