The Asian lady beetle is often confused for a normal ladybug, but they are actually quite different. Asian lady beetles are a common fall pest problem as they look to seek shelter before the cold months ahead. Similarly to the boxelder bug and stink bug problems this time of year, Asian lady beetles will flock to the side of your home to bask in the sun on colder fall days. This is when they may crawl indoors through windows, doors, or other cracks and crevices. Once indoors, they’ll gravitate toward windows but can also be found in attics, in curtains, and more. While not the most dangerous pest problem, you definitely don’t want these beetles flying around your Bristol TN home! Read on for expert info on the Asian lady beetle from our team of experts at Leo’s Pest Control.
All About Asian Lady Beetles in Tennessee
It can be easy to misidentify an Asian lady beetle for a ladybug. Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Asian lady beetles are slightly larger than ladybugs.
- They can be off-red, orange, or even a mustard color.
- Asian lady beetles have two white oval markings on the spot behind their head.
- Some have an M-shaped mark on the pronotum.
- The beetles can leave behind an odorous fluid when crushed.
Tips to Keep Asian Lady Beetles Out in the Fall
When the temperature starts to dip in the fall months, Asian lady beetles will begin to look for shelter indoors. After basking in the sun on the south or western facing wall of a structure, they can get indoors through any opening. Our top tips to keep Asian lady beetles out of your home this fall include:
- Repair or replace damaged screens on doors and windows.
- Replace the weather stripping around windows and doors.
- Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, doors, utility pipes, siding, behind chimneys, and around any other openings.
- Possibly plant some mums in your garden or around your home. These beetles are not fans of the plants and will avoid them at all costs.
- Try out a natural deterrent using citrus or citronella scents. Make a spray with orange or lemon essential oil diluted with water, and spray around your windows or doors.
How to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles
If you start to notice these insects inside your property, there’s no need to panic. These beetles may bite, but their bites are not known to be dangerous. You can use a vacuum cleaner to contain them, but make sure to dispose of them in a sealed bag. The residential exterminators at Leo’s know just how distressing any type of pest problem is inside your home, which is why we’re here to help. Contact us today for assistance with Asian lady beetles.
Watch Out for Asian Lady Beetles This Fall in Bristol TN
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