Asian Lady Beetles migrating into Mid-Missourian homes

With fall continues to settle in as the average temperatures continue to decrease deeper into October. Columbia sees average highs begin the month into the mid-70s and decrease into the lower 60s by the end of the month.

This dramatic annual shift in temperatures causes a migration of bugs indoors into homes of Mid-Missourians. These bugs are known as Asian Lady Beetles. These non-native insects look to find their home in warmer areas such as the inside of homes to withstand the late fall and winter months.

The large influx of these bugs indoors can lead to a variety of issues.

Asian Lady Beetles resemble their relative of Ladybugs. A way to distinguish these two is to look at the tops of the heads. Ladybugs typically have white spots lining the sides of their heads while most Asian Lady Beetles have a head that is mostly white with a few black spots.

Asian Lady Beetles can congregate in large groups huddled around lighter colored areas within a household that receive higher amounts of sunlight. This can lead to a visual eye sore in homes. Along with this, these beetles can also let off a fluid that releases a strong odor that is meant to ward off predators when threatened. This odor can lead to a strong bad smell lingering in homes. This fluid can also stain lighter colored walls and furniture.

To get rid of these insects from your home, the best option is to use a vacuum to prevents the beetle from releasing it in time. Squashing the bug will result in higher levels of this fluid being released. The best defense against these small invaders is by making sure all entrances in your home are completely sealed.