Adam's Pest Control, Inc.

Ladybugs have a critical role as beneficial predators of soft-bodied arthropods, such as aphids and scales. They also have traditional values in some cultures. For example, the presence of lady beetles in a house is often considered a symbol of good luck. However, we will consider the multicolored Asian lady beetles (MCALB), Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), as seasonal structural pests.

We used to tell people, “just pick up the little guy and let him go outside, or vacuum them up.” Today, they've become a quite big fall invader problem. The MCALB has been described as the most invasive lady beetle on Earth. In North America alone, they have been found feeding on 36 different species of aphids and other pests, and have greatly reduced the number of native lady beetles in North America.

In addition, and contrary to popular belief, these beetles can and do bite humans. The bite of MCALB is similar to a pinch and no blood meal is taken from the person being bitten. MCALBs are a source of allergic reactions that range from sneezing to asthma depending on the sensitive individuals. Moreover, dead insect bodies of seasonal invaders inside wall voids, cracks and crevices attract dermestid beetles, such as hide beetles, larder beetles, carpet beetles. They also attract ants, especially carpenter ants.