Are Asian Lady Beetles Harmful?

Have you seen those small orange bugs with black dots on the outside of your home in the fall? Many people think they are ladybugs, but they are actually Asian lady beetles. They look harmless but once they get inside they start causing problems. Are Asian lady beetles harmful? The answer is yes. They do not spread serious diseases, but they can bite, smell bad, stain walls, and even cause allergies for people and pets.

What Are Asian Lady Beetles?

Asian lady beetles are not native to Wisconsin or the United States. These insects were brought to the United States to help farmers control other insects. Outside in fields, they can be helpful. But not inside homes, they are pests. Unlike red ladybugs, Asian lady beetles are usually orange or yellow and may have many black spots or none at all. They also have a black “M” shape on their head.

In the fall, they look for warm places to hide for winter. Warm places in your home such as attics and even wall spaces are perfect spots. In the winter when the warm sun shines through the window you see groups of them inside. 

How are they Harmful

Asian lady beetles are not harmless. These insects can bite, leaving behind little red marks. There is an awful smell that is released when they are scared, and a yellow liquid that stains furniture and walls. This liquid also leaves a lasting bad smell. Some people have allergies to these beetles, which can cause itchy skin, watery eyes, or coughing. Pets that eat them can get sore mouths or upset stomachs.

The biggest problem with Asian lady beetles is that they don’t come alone. Large groups often pop up, which makes them very hard to control once they get inside your home. Prevention is key. 

How to Keep Them Out

The best way to deal with Asian lady beetles is to stop them before they get inside. Homeowners can seal cracks around windows, doors, and siding with caulk. Checking window and door screens for holes also helps. Vacuuming can remove beetles that sneak indoors, but empty the bag outside so they don’t crawl back out. Keeping outdoor lights dim at night is another simple step since these beetles are drawn to bright lights.

Even with these steps, infestations can still happen. That’s why many people choose to call a pest control company for help. Professionals can treat the outside of your home in the fall and create a barrier that keeps beetles from coming in at all.

Why Call a Pest Control Company?

Asian lady beetles are tough to handle on your own. Crushing them leaves stains and makes the smell worse. Vacuuming only gives short-term relief and makes your vacuum smell every time you use it afterwards. A pest control company knows how to treat them safely on both the exterior and interior of your home.

If you’ve ever searched for a pest exterminator near me, you know there are many choices. With 1st Choice Pest Solutions, you get local experts who understand how to deal with Wisconsin’s fall seasonal pests like Asian lady beetles, box elder bugs and stink bugs.

FAQs

Do Asian lady beetles bite?
Yes. Their bites feel like a small pinch and leave a red mark however, they are not dangerous.

Are they the same as ladybugs?
No. Ladybugs are small and red. Asian lady beetles are orange, larger, swarm indoors and have a smell.

When do they come inside?
They usually invade homes once the first hard frost hits. 

Can they hurt pets?
Yes, if ingested they may cause upset stomachs.

Final Thoughts

So, are Asian lady beetles harmful? Yes, they are. They won’t destroy your home like termites, but their bites, stains, and odors make them a pest you do not want around. The good news is that you can stop the interior infestation with professional prevention. 

If you see Asian lady beetles in your home, call 1st Choice Pest Solutions today. Our team of exterminators knows how to keep them out and prevent them from coming back. Instead of searching for “pest exterminator near me,” trust the local experts who care about protecting your home.