Multicolored Asian Lady Bird

This lady bug species is larger than many of our native species. "Multicolored" refers to the tremendous color variations in this species, ranging from black with two red spots, to red with 19 black spots, with every combination in between. The most common color seems to be deep orange. The thorax of these beetles usually has black markings on a white background in the shape of an irregular "M".

They are a nuisance. Most lady beetle adults spend the winter months in clusters, protected from the weather. In its native home of Japan, Korea and other Asian countries, the multicolored Asian lady beetle overwinters in cliffs, but in the United States it is attracted to houses, especially light-colored walls with a south or southwest exposure. These 1/4" insects enter wall voids through cracks and settle down in dark areas for the winter. On winter days during spells of warmer weather, these beetles may become active and you'll find them inside. These beetles cannot live and breed in your home - they will die.

Multicolored Asian lady beetles have also been reported to nibble, nip, or "bite" humans. They are not aggressive, but may probe to seek moisture. They will not break the skin or draw blood.