Ladybug Infestations
Ladybugs infest homes primarily in search of warmth and shelter as the weather turns cold, especially during the fall and early winter. What many people call “ladybugs” in these situations are actually Asian lady beetles, a non-native species that closely resembles the native ladybug but behaves quite differently.
These beetles are drawn to light-colored structures, sunny walls, and areas with good southern exposure because they mimic the warm rock faces where they naturally overwinter. Once they find an entry point—such as cracks around windows, doors, vents, siding, or attic openings—they gather in large numbers inside wall voids, attics, and other protected indoor areas.
Ladybugs and Asian lady beetles seek out these locations for hibernation (called diapause). While they don’t feed, reproduce, or cause structural damage indoors, their sheer numbers and tendency to release a yellow, foul-smelling fluid when disturbed make them a significant nuisance. The odor and staining from their secretions can ruin fabrics, walls, and other household surfaces.
Ladybugs infest homes as a survival strategy to escape the cold, finding warmth, protection, and light cues that signal a safe place to overwinter. Once inside, they can become a persistent annoyance until they leave (whether naturally or professionally).
Lady Bugs Can Invade Properties In Very Large Numbers
A ladybug infestation can range from a few dozen insects to tens of thousands, depending on factors like the size of the structure, location, and weather conditions. In typical household invasions, you might see hundreds to several thousand ladybugs gathering around windows, ceilings, attics, or wall voids. However, in severe infestations—especially in rural or wooded areas near fields or gardens—it’s not uncommon for 10,000 to 20,000 or more lady beetles to invade a single home or building.
The primary culprit in large-scale infestations is usually the Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis) rather than the native ladybug species. These beetles have a strong instinct to overwinter in large communal groups and are highly attracted to light-colored or sun-warmed buildings. Once one beetle finds a good overwintering site, it releases pheromones that attract thousands of others to the same area, rapidly multiplying the infestation.
Because these beetles tend to cluster in hidden spaces—behind walls, inside attics, or under siding—the visible number of insects indoors often represents only a fraction of the true population.
Factors That Attract Lady Bugs To Your Property
The ideal ladybug habitat is warm and dry. Most infestations occur in autumn for this very reason. However, other factors may attract ladybugs to your property, such as:
- Ladybugs love older homes: It's not so much a matter of aesthetics as it is easy to access. Ladybugs love tight spaces and take advantage of cracks or holes in your home's walls.
- Ladybugs will look to your garden for a tasty snack: They'll eat mint, parsley, garlic, dandelions, and dill, among others. Some gardeners will grow these plants to intentionally lure ladybugs since they eat other pests.
- They're also attracted to light and bright colors: So while repainting your home's exterior to avoid inviting ladybugs is just a tad impractical, limiting the use of lights at night, indoors and out, can help.
If ladybugs find some aspect of your property appealing, they'll find their way into your home sooner or later. During an inspection, our Miche Pest Control pros will show you how ladybugs can get inside and the changes you can make to stop them.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of A Lady Bug Infestation
You'll be hard-pressed to find a home remedy for ladybugs. Sure, you may succeed in getting rid of some, but it takes much more to keep them from returning. You need professional services from Miche Pest Control if you want surefire solutions.
Our company began in 2019; since then, we've tackled countless pests for homeowners and businesses. In addition to safe and effective pest control solutions, we offer unrivaled customer service to all our clients. Let's work together to get to the root of your pest problems. Call Miche Pest Control today to learn more and schedule an inspection.