Ladybirds, Ladybugs: The Full Monty
I have spent many hours over the summer months crouched among flowers in my little garden in England; filming and photographing a wonderful array of these enchanting beetles. Some even have heart-shaped spots….
Arguably one of the most charismatic of all insects, ladybirds (or ladybugs as they are widely known, especially in USA) remain a firm favourite with children and adults alike – and it’s easy to see why. From an early age, children are introduced to ladybirds in books and toys.
While other less attractive insects are (sadly!) not depicted so favourably; ladybirds with their bright, colourful patterns are portrayed as friendly, fun characters – usually enjoying life in a pretty flower bed.
Away from children’s books, ladybirds remain a gardener’s friend – devouring aphids that would otherwise destroy garden plants. (Photos above are of the British native 7-spot and 2-spot ladybirds.)
The four-stages of the ladybird life-cycle are fascinating – from egg, to larva, pupa and finally adult beetle. During the pupa stage, the larva undergoes an incredible metamorphosis. When the ladybird finally emerges, it is bright yellow in colour! As the soft wings harden in the sunshine, the ladybird’s final colour gradually appears.
The British ladybird story is now entering a new chapter. In the UK we have 46 species of native ladybird. But in 2004 a new arrival heralded a change in balance – the Harlequin ladybird. (See photos below)
The harlequin ladybird or harmonia axyridis, is an invasive species; rapidly moving across the UK from the South-East. It has the potential to have a major impact on native ladybird populations.
Such is their desire to survive, harlequin larvae will not only eat aphids and other insects; they will also eat the larvae of other types of ladybird – even devouring larvae of their own kind to reduce competition for food.
National Surveys are now underway to assess the situation and help with identification. For more information visit: www.ladybird-survey.org & www.harlequin-survey.org
I garden organically, avoiding chemicals – and in return I am rewarded with visits from all kinds of insects (which keep each other in check) and these encourage other wildlife, especially birds. I hope you enjoy my pictures!
About Sarah Rees
Sarah has been fascinated by the natural world for as long as she can remember and is keen to explore new places and document wild encounters with her trusty camera. She is an Environmental Scientist, presenter and keen wildlife photographer; and is also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. With a background in television production, she launched her online Forestwatch videos to celebrate the diversity of woodland wildlife and ancient trees. She is keen to work on more Natural History programming.
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Wow – fab photographs and I had no idea that they were yellow when born! I am not happy to hear about the Harlequin! Must all our native insects be lost – eg British Bumblebees
( Thanks for a very interesting blog – Alison
Incredible pictures Paul! I have always been fascinated by ladybugs! Great article.
I’m sorry. Great article Sarah! Thanks for publishing her post Paul!
Thanks so much Wendy! Paul’s great at sharing stories and pictures isn’t he?!