MN Pest Control For Multicolored Asian Lady Bugs
Multicolored Asian Beetles
Although multicolored Asian lady beetles can be a nuisance when they occur in large numbers, they do not damage homes or other property. These lady beetles cannot sting and they do not carry disease. They can pinch the skin and cause minor, short-lived discomfort. They can secrete a strong smelling yellowish liquid from the joints of their legs, a process called reflex bleeding. They use this to discourage predators or at other times when they are stressed. This liquid can also stain light colored surfaces.
Importance
Allergic Reactions. Some individuals report an allergenic response to lady beetles. Although published reports are uncommon, multicolored Asian lady beetles apparently can cause inhalant allergies. These allergies clear up once the lady beetles are removed.
Some people are sensitive or allergic to the fluid that lady beetles secrete, which can cause contact dermatitis and a stinging sensation. However, lady beetles cannot sting, because they do not possess a stinger.
“Bites.” Although an uncommon occurrence, multicolored Asian lady beetles have been reported to nibble, nip, or “bite” humans. These lady beetles are not aggressive toward humans, and they simply may be examining an unfamiliar substrate or they may be seeking moisture. Their occasional nibbling is not reported to break the skin or draw human blood.
Stains and Odor. When lady beetles are disturbed, they defend themselves by exuding a yellow-orange body fluid, which is their blood. This defense mechanism is termed reflex bleeding. The blood has a foul odor and can permanently stain walls, drapes, carpeting, etc. Thus, do not crush or swat lady beetles so as to minimize their defensive behavior.
House Proofing
Multicolored Asian lady beetles and many other insects can slip through gaps of about 1/8 inch. If lady beetles have been getting into your home, cold air also is entering in the winter and hot air in the summer. A thorough outdoor and indoor inspection is essential and this may require the services of a professional contractor.
It is important to seal cracks and openings in your home before lady beetles have found their way into your home. The following pest-proofing measures are a useful guide for excluding lady beetles from structures.
- Seal cracks around windows, doors, siding, utility pipes, and other openings. Use weather stripping or a good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk. Larger gaps can be sealed with urethane foam, glass wool or stainless steel wool, etc.
- Install tight-fitting door sweeps or thresholds at all exterior entry doors.
- Around garage doors, install a rubber seal rather than vinyl, which seals poorly in cold weather.
- Install insect screening (20-mesh maximum) over attic and exhaust vents to prevent lady beetle entry.
- Replace and repair damaged door and window screens.
About Asian Lady Bugs
Where did the multi-colored Asian lady beetle come from? This insect is native to northeastern Asia.
Where do these beetles go in the spring? As soon as the weather warms in the spring, the multi-colored Asian lady beetles begin emerging from their winter quarters. They will continue to do this until they have all departed for the season. After they leave, they will look for food, mate and the females will begin laying eggs on foliage. A short time later both males and females will die.
Do Multicolored Asian lady beetles do not carry disease organisms? They do not eat wood, building materials, or human food. In fact, multicolored Asian lady beetles do not consume food while overwintering, but instead rely on their stores of body fat. Otherwise, they eat aphids and other soft-bodied insects.
The good thing is these Asian Beetles are harmless. They carry no diseases, and the worst they can do is pinch you causing slight discomfort. Another relief is that they will not damage your property. Your best bet in getting rid of these overwhelming bugs is to call your Minnesota Pest Control Expert. They come in huge swarms, and no matter how many you get rid of, more keep coming!
