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Friday, 17 February 2012


Seven-spotted ladybirds like this are the only native species not in danger
Seven-spotted ladybirds like this are the only native species not in danger


Ladybirds are being driven out by an invading species

Native ladybirds in the UK are being driven out by an invading species, according to scientists.

Harlequin ladybirds originally came from Asia, but were brought to the UK years ago to help act as pest control. However, they have turned into pests themselves as numbers have got out of control.

Harlequin ladybirds are bigger than some of the rarer species of UK ladybird, including the two-spotted ladybird. The two species live on similar trees and eat the same food, and the bigger species is taking over. Scientists believe that seven out of eight native species in the UK are in danger. Ladybirds are one of the most popular insects and are important for gardeners, as they help eat aphids and other pests that destroy gardens and flowers.

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  • superdog7 (Age 12) wrote on Monday, 20 February 2012 @ 12:22

    that is not ogod i really like lady birds i recently recuded one some one was going to stand on deribretly because they are just wierd and i stoped them and put it back where they found it

  • kitsunela (Age 12) wrote on Wednesday, 22 February 2012 @ 11:42

    THE HARLEQUINS ARE COMING!

  • Bunnycat (Age 13) wrote on Wednesday, 22 February 2012 @ 12:33

    I have found harlequin ladybirds before.