Many similar looking, multicolored species of beetle belong to the family known as Coccinellidae. Asian Lady Beetles are about ¼ inch (7mm) in length and can appear in a large spectrum of color combinations. Their colors range from yellow to orange to the classic red with black spots (the classic “Ladybug”). This can mislead people causing them to think they are a different species.
Many varieties of Coccinellidae beetles exist in the US and Canada. Most are beneficial insects. In fact several have been imported to the Americas to help control pests in crops. The Asian Lady Beetle feeds primarily on aphids, mealybugs and scale insects. These beetles gather in large numbers in the fall preparing to hibernate through the winter. They are often seen gathered on light-colored houses and buildings. The Asian Lady Beetle will enter houses and buildings via entry points to hibernate through the winter months. They will emerge again in the spring and begin feeding on aphids and other garden pests.
There are approximately 5,000 species of Asian Lady Beetle (Ladybugs) worldwide; the lifecycle will vary depending on environment.