Ladybirds

Harlequin Ladybird Infestations in Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham

Ladybird Behaviour in Autumn and Spring

As the temperatures drop in autumn, Harlequin ladybirds gather in large numbers, seeking shelter inside homes and buildings across the North East, including Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham. These invasive ladybirds are drawn to external walls where they sun themselves before entering cracks and crevices to hibernate. In spring, the process reverses as they emerge from hibernation.

One of the unique behaviours of Harlequin ladybirds is their genetic memory—they tend to return to the same location year after year, leading to recurring infestations in buildings.

Problems Caused by Harlequin Ladybirds

While ladybirds are often seen as beneficial insects due to their appetite for aphids, large indoor infestations can cause problems:

• Secretion Stains: If disturbed, they release a yellow fluid that stains walls, furniture, and window frames, leaving an unpleasant odour.
• Bites: While rare, ladybirds can bite. Their bites are harmless, though they may cause minor irritation.
• Dead Ladybirds: Once inside buildings, ladybirds can become disoriented, often dying around windows as they attempt to find their way out.

Ladybird Control Preparation

Before treatment, there are a few steps property owners need to take:

• Ensure the areas where ladybirds have been spotted—such as windows, walls, and ceilings—are clean.
• If ladybirds are present in the loft, clear the space to allow access for treatment.

Aftercare Following Treatment

After treatment, proper aftercare ensures maximum effectiveness:

• Allow treated areas to dry completely, without wiping away any insecticide puddles.
• Ventilate the area by opening windows and reduce humidity while increasing the temperature for the best results.
• Keep pets and children away from treated surfaces until they are fully dry.
• The residual insecticide remains active for 1-3 months, so avoid cleaning or vacuuming the treated areas during this time.
• Expect to see dying ladybirds for up to four weeks post-treatment.

How Our Harlequin Ladybird Treatment Works

At PEST-SHIELD, we use eco-friendly pest control methods. Our technicians apply residual insecticide to surfaces where ladybirds have been seen, including around windows, walls, and lofts. For larger spaces, such as lofts or cavity walls, we may apply an insecticide fog.

The treatment kills ladybirds over time as they come into contact with treated surfaces. You may see dying ladybirds for up to four weeks post-treatment, depending on the temperature and the level of insecticide absorbed.

While our treatment eliminates the majority of ladybirds, some may already be hibernating in hard-to-reach areas, such as cavity walls or between roof tiles and felt. These may need additional treatment.

About Harlequin Ladybirds

Introduced to the UK in 2004, Harlequin ladybirds have spread throughout the country, including the North East. Originating from Asia, they were initially introduced to North America in 1916 as a biological control for aphids. Since then, they have become one of the most invasive ladybird species globally, spreading across Europe and now threatening native British species.

Harlequin ladybirds are larger than native British ladybirds, measuring up to 8mm long, and vary in colour from yellow to red, with different spot patterns. A distinctive feature is the white spot on their heads. They pose a significant threat to native ladybirds by competing for food and eating their eggs and larvae. Their aggressive feeding habits also endanger hundreds of other native insect species in the UK.