Homeowners across Britain may have spotted a sudden influx of vibrant visitors lately – ladybirds. And while these creatures are a charming sight in gardens, they become rather less welcome when they begin materialising indoors in swarms.
Experts are warning of reports of “invasions” of ladybirds at the moment, and according to Sophie Thorogood, technical training manager at Pest-Stop, this summer’s warm conditions are primarily responsible for autumn’s ladybird explosion.
She said: “You may be spotting more ladybirds in your garden or even inside your home because this summer’s warm weather has created ideal conditions for insects to thrive.
“The higher temperatures have boosted populations of all insects, including aphids – one of the ladybird’s main food sources. With plenty to eat, ladybird numbers have naturally risen too.”
However, as the weather cools ladybirds prepare to survive the winter by enterting a state called “diapause”, similar to hibernation.
Sophie continued: “During this period, they look for warm, sheltered places to protect themselves from cold, wet conditions and a lack of food. In the wild, this might be gaps in tree bark or under rocks, but increasingly they find refuge in homes, sheds and outbuildings, which offer dry, protected spaces.”
Ladybirds can be helpful in the garden, as they keep other pests which cause mould growth and plant damage away. However, Sophie adds: “When they come indoors – especially harlequin ladybirds, which often gather in large numbers – they can become a nuisance.
“Large clusters can stain walls, wallpaper and woodwork with their secretions, though they’re not harmful to humans or pets.”
And if they’re gathering in noticeable numbers, it’s best to remove them to prevent them from your home, or they may re-emerge in spring.
Sophie suggests: “The most humane approach is to gently relocate them outside You can pick them up carefully or use a small piece of paper for them to climb onto before placing them outdoors.”
If you prefer not to touch them, a spider vacuum can safely collect and release them without harm.
The expert continued: “If you notice ladybirds indoors now, remove them promptly to stop them settling in for winter – otherwise, they’ll likely reappear when temperatures rise.” She also suggests sealing small gaps around windows and doors to block their entry points.
While ladybirds are tiny and can be difficult to completely exclude, closing off cracks and crevices will help reduce numbers.
“You can also use insect traps on windows to help lower indoor populations and discourage hibernation inside your home.”