Multicolored Asian lady beetle

Description:

The adults are 6 mm long, slightly oval and come in many shades of red and orange. The number of spots can very greatly – and sometimes they don’t even have spots. They can be identified by the “m” or “w” on the backs of their heads.

Habitat:

Yard in Austin Texas.

Notes:

A native to Asia, this beetle was originally released in the US to help control pests, and it’s established itself extensively. Since it feeds on many species of soft-bodied insects, including aphids, scales and psyllids, this beneficial insect is considered to be a very good friend to gardeners.