Seven-spot ladybirds

The seven-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata) is a small beetle recognisable by the seven black spots on its red or orange wing cases. Under the wing cases are thin wings used for flying.

Where does it live?

It is common in Europe, Asia and North Africa and has also been carried to North America. It is found in meadows, fields, gardens and almost anywhere aphids occur.

What does it eat?

Both adults and larvae mainly eat aphids; a single ladybird can eat thousands of aphids in its lifetime. That is why it is known as a natural helper for pest control on farms and in gardens.

Behaviour and life

When threatened, it releases a yellow, bitter fluid from its leg joints and may play dead. Its bright colours tell birds it tastes bad. It spends the winter as an adult under bark, in leaf litter or in sheltered corners of buildings, often in groups.

Life cycle

The female lays her eggs near aphid colonies. The larvae that hatch look nothing like the adults, with long, spiny bodies. The larvae moult several times, pupate and then become adult ladybirds.

Conservation status

There is no global IUCN assessment for this species. It is common, but pesticides and, in some areas, competition with the invasive harlequin ladybird may affect native ladybird species.

Fun facts

• A ladybird's number of spots does not show its age; it depends on the species.
• In many cultures the ladybird is believed to bring good luck.
• Ladybirds fly by opening their wing cases and using the thin wings underneath.