Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)
Harlequin Ladybirds are a type beetle originally native to eastern Asia, but which have been introduced to Britain to control aphids. It is now seen as a pest because it competes with native species for food and also eats other ladybirds. It has a domed shape, and occurs in three main colour forms: red or orange with black spots; black with four red spots; and black with two red spots. They have brown or reddish legs.
Behaviour
Bright colours warn would-be predators they are distasteful, and they use defensive chemicals to further deter predators, which is released from their legs. Harlequin Ladybirds hibernate in crevices in cooler months, often in large numbers, waking up when temperatures reach about 10 °C.
Breeding
Eggs hatch in 3–4 days from clutches numbering from a few to several dozen, with pupation occurring after 10-14 days. After several days the adults become reproductively active and are able to reproduce again. Their total life span is 1–2 years on average.
Feeding
Adults and larvae eat aphids, though the adult also eats pollen and nectar if animal food is short.
Status
The Harlequin Ladybird is considered a pest, and numerous methods of control have been investigated, including insecticides, trapping, mechanically preventing entry to buildings and biological control using natural parasites.