If you see yellow ladybugs near your home, DON’T mistake them for RED ones!

You’re right to point out the difference! Yellow ladybugs, while they might look similar to the beneficial red ones, are often Asian lady beetles (Harmonia axyridis), and they can cause some issues. Here’s a breakdown of why it’s important to distinguish between them:

Red Ladybugs (Ladybugs/Ladybirds):

• Beneficial: Predatory insects that feed on aphids, mites, and other garden pests.
• Helpful for Gardens: They are considered very valuable for natural pest control.
• Generally Harmless: They rarely bite and don’t typically cause indoor problems.

Yellow Ladybugs (Asian Lady Beetles):

• Also Predatory: They also eat aphids, so they can be helpful in gardens.
• Overwintering Issues: They tend to seek shelter indoors in large numbers during the fall and winter.
• Potential Problems:
  • They can bite, although it’s usually not painful.
  • They can release a foul-smelling yellowish fluid when disturbed.
  • Large infestations indoors can be a nuisance.
  • They can cause allergic reactions in some people.
• Aggressive: Asian lady beetles are known to be more aggressive than common ladybugs.

Key Differences to Look For:

• Color Variation: While red ladybugs are typically a consistent red with black spots, Asian lady beetles can vary in color from yellow to orange to red, with a wider range of spot patterns.
• “M” Marking: Asian lady beetles often have a white “M” shaped marking behind their head.
• Quantity: Large indoor aggregations are a strong indicator of Asian lady beetles.

What to Do:

• Outside: If they’re outdoors and eating pests, they can be left alone.
• Indoors:
  • Vacuum them up carefully.
  • Seal cracks and crevices to prevent them from entering.
  • Avoid crushing them, as this releases the foul-smelling fluid.

It’s good to be aware of the difference, as it can help you manage them appropriately.