It happens every fall in Atlanta. One day your siding is clear, and the next, the sunny side of your house is covered in hundreds of orange-red beetles. Soon, they’re crawling on your windowsills and flying around your living room.
You might call them ladybugs, but they are actually an invasive imposter: the Asian Lady Beetle.
Why Are They Here? Unlike our native ladybugs, which hibernate outdoors under leaves, Asian Lady Beetles originate from cliffs in Asia. In Georgia, your house acts as a “cliff.” They are instinctively programmed to seek warmth and shelter for the winter, and your light-colored siding and warm attic are the perfect targets.
How to Tell the Difference
- Color: They range from yellow to deep red-orange.
- The “M” Mark: Look for a distinct black “M” or “W” shape on the white section behind their head.
- Behavior: They congregate in massive groups and, unlike gentle ladybugs, they can bite and release a foul-smelling yellow liquid when disturbed.
Are They Harmful? They don’t eat wood or spread disease, but they are a major nuisance. They can stain curtains and walls with their secretions and trigger allergies in some people.
Keep the Swarm Out Once they are inside your walls, they are difficult to remove. The best defense is a proactive exterior barrier treatment in the fall.
Looking for pest control near me? Call Urban Pest Control to seal your home against overwintering pests.
