There’s a notable difference between ladybugs and Asian lady beetles. While ladybugs are quite charming and beneficial as they feast on pests, Asian lady beetles also help with pest control but have some downsides. They are invasive, can bite, and might swarm into your home.
Identifying an Asian lady beetle is straightforward. They have an “M” shaped marking near their heads, which ladybugs lack. Unlike ladybugs that enjoy staying outside, Asian lady beetles prefer the warm interiors of your home. Another noticeable behavior is that Asian lady beetles leave behind an unpleasant yellow liquid and can bite, whereas ladybugs generally do not.
As the weather cools, Asian lady beetles tend to seek shelter in houses, squeezing through any nooks and crannies they can find. However, thanks to a practical solution shared on Facebook by Autumn McWhorter, dealing with these intruders can be quite simple and effective.
Autumn suggests mixing together two cups of warm water, four tablespoons of sugar, and four drops of liquid dish soap in a mason jar. Then, leave the mason jar out in the open. The Asian lady beetles, attracted to the solution, will enter the jar and won’t be able to escape.
If you’re tired of dealing with pesky Asian lady beetles in your home, give this simple and cost-effective method a try. Thank you, Autumn, for this valuable tip!