Ladybugs, correctly known as lady beetles, are highly valued insects recognized for their effectiveness as natural pest control agents. These small, dome-shaped beetles are voracious predators in both their larval and adult stages, feeding on common garden pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and mites. Capturing these beneficial insects without causing them harm requires a gentle, informed approach that respects their natural behavior and environment.
Knowing When and Where to Search
The optimal time to search for lady beetles is during late spring and early summer when temperatures are warm and pest populations, their primary food source, are beginning to flourish. They are most active during the sunny, mid-morning hours after the morning dew has evaporated, as moisture can hinder their movement.
Lady beetles are predictably found near areas with high concentrations of their prey, particularly aphids. Look closely at plants like roses, milkweed, and vegetable crops that are showing signs of infestation, as the beetles will be actively feeding there. They also frequent pollen-rich plants and certain weeds, such as fennel or dill, which provide supplemental nutrition and shelter.
Low-Impact Collection Techniques
The most straightforward and least harmful way to collect lady beetles is through a gentle tapping method using a simple container. Position a light-colored sheet or a wide, shallow container beneath the foliage where the beetles are present. Then, gently tap or shake the stem of the plant to dislodge the insects onto the surface below.
The light-colored surface makes the beetles immediately visible, allowing for quick, careful transfer. Once settled, gently use a soft artist’s brush or a piece of paper to guide the lady beetle into a ventilated holding container. For areas with soft grasses or weeds, a fine-mesh sweep net can be used, moving it lightly through the vegetation to collect the beetles without injury.
Temporary Housing and Care
Once captured, lady beetles need a temporary environment that provides sufficient ventilation, hydration, and food to keep them healthy. A clear plastic container or a jar with a secure, modified lid is suitable, provided several small air holes are added to ensure air circulation. Avoid placing the container in direct sunlight, as glass and plastic can quickly trap heat, causing the internal temperature to rise rapidly.
To provide essential moisture, include a small, damp cotton ball or a moistened piece of paper towel inside the container. For nourishment, lady beetles will readily consume a drop of honey diluted slightly with water, placed on a non-absorbent surface. A small piece of a raisin or a fresh lettuce leaf can also serve as a temporary food source until the beetles are released back into the garden environment.
Distinguishing Ladybugs from Harmful Look-alikes
Before collecting, it is important to visually confirm the insect is a native lady beetle and not the invasive Asian Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis). The most reliable way to distinguish the two is by examining the area directly behind the insect’s head, known as the pronotum. Native species typically have a black pronotum with small, white spots or markings on the sides.
The Asian Lady Beetle, in contrast, possesses a highly visible black marking on its pale pronotum that often resembles the letter “M” or “W.” Additionally, native lady beetles tend to have a more uniformly round shape, while the Asian species is sometimes slightly larger and more oval. Identifying this distinct marking ensures you collect the beneficial native species and not the one known to bite or secrete foul-smelling, staining fluid.