If you find a swarm of red or orange beetles around your windows, you should know that these insects could quickly become more than just a minor nuisance. The Asian lady beetle somewhat resembles the familiar ladybug, but it behaves differently and often gathers around homes as the temperatures drop.
Precise Termite & Pest Control explains how to identify Asian lady beetles, remove them safely, and prevent an infestation before winter arrives.
What Are Asian Lady Beetles?
The Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis) is an invasive insect that was introduced to North America to help control agricultural pests. Although they can benefit farmers, these insects have become unwelcome guests in New Jersey homes.
They differ from other household pests because they don’t typically seek food indoors. However, they do look for comfortable places to spend the winter and often gather around windows, walls, and other sunny spots before finding their way inside.
Asian Lady Beetle vs. Ladybug: How to Tell the Difference
If you’re wondering how to identify Asian lady beetles, look closely at the insect’s appearance and behavior. Asian lady beetles vary from pale orange to deep red in color and can have many black spots or none at all. However, their most recognizable feature is a black, M-shaped marking on the white area behind the head.
Meanwhile, native ladybugs don’t congregate in large numbers on homes as Asian lady beetles do. Asian lady beetles also frequently swarm sunlit exterior walls in the fall as they search for winter shelter.
Is the Asian Lady Beetle Harmful?
Can I touch an Asian lady beetle? What happens if an Asian lady beetle bites me?
Asian lady beetles aren’t generally dangerous to people, pets, or property. However, they can nip exposed skin and cause minor irritations. Some people may experience allergic reactions to Asian lady beetles.
When one of these insects is threatened or crushed, it releases a yellowish defensive fluid through a process called reflex bleeding. This fluid has a foul odor and can stain your walls, curtains, upholstery, and other surfaces. So it’s best to avoid squishing them.
Why Are They Swarming My House?
In the fall in New Jersey, Asian lady beetles start looking for warm, sheltered places to spend the winter. They can gather in large groups on sunny, light-colored exterior walls, especially ones facing south and west.
As they gather around your home, they may get inside through small gaps around windows, doors, and utility openings. Seeing even a few inside can signal a larger, more concerning Asian lady beetle infestation nearby.
How to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles Safely
If you notice a small number of Asian lady beetles outdoors, use a hose attachment to vacuum them up without crushing them. Then, promptly empty the vacuum into a sealed bag or secured stocking and dispose of it outdoors.
Avoid handling Asian lady beetles roughly or squishing them to prevent odors and stains. If you see clusters on the outside of your home, wash the surfaces with soapy water.
Prevention: How to Keep the Swarm at Bay
Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent Asian lady beetles before fall swarms begin. Seal up any cracks around windows, doors, siding, and other entry points with caulk or weatherstripping. Also, repair damaged screens and reduce unnecessary exterior lighting around entryways since bright lights can attract them. Before it gets colder outside, inspect your home’s exterior to identify potential problem areas.
When to Call a Professional Pest Control Expert
Asian lady beetle control is among the many services we provide at Precise. If these invasive pests keep returning or appearing in large numbers, DIY removal might not be enough.
Our professional Asian lady beetle pest control techniques help us identify entry points, implement exclusion measures, and recommend preventive treatments. We encourage New Jersey homeowners to contact us to explore pest management options tailored to your property.
