Ladybird infestation.

Sun 2 Apr 2017, 13:35

Oh no, they are harlequins!

Fri 31 Mar 2017, 10:40

A helpful website for ladybird identification:

www.harlequin-survey.org/recognition_and_distinction.htm

Fri 31 Mar 2017, 08:19

Harlequins typically nest in their hundreds in houses, while native ladybirds are more likely to be found in the garden. www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/ladybirds-are-invading-our-houses-this-autumn-often-in-their-thousands-whats-going-on-397186.html

Thu 30 Mar 2017, 21:46

We have this problem, mainly in windows that don't get opened very often. I have been operating a live-and-let-live policy, but now wondering if they are Harlequins and if so should I stop being such a pacifist and wipe them all out?

I have found that once they are all cleaned out of the window frames, so long as you open them every now and again and wipe round the ladybirds don't come back. Ladybirds are dormant for I think 3 months of the year, so I expect they found your downlighters a nice place to hide out over winter.

Wed 29 Mar 2017, 19:15

I use insect / wasp killer spray. May need a few repeat treatments.

Wed 29 Mar 2017, 18:30 (last edited on Wed 29 Mar 2017, 22:09)

We get hundreds of Harlequin ladybirds (the horrible invasive species that are responsible for the decline of our UK ladybird species) nesting overwinter in the crevices and frames of our south-facing windows. When the weather warms up they emerge and fly all over the house. I haven't yet found a deterrent, but if I brush them all out and then spray/wipe the areas they've been with a bleach solution, it seems to keep them from returning for a good few months. There are lots of websites on Harlequins, including the national Harlequin Ladybird Survey.

Wed 29 Mar 2017, 12:56

We have been dealing with up to 40 a day in the house and just discovered many of the down lighters on the first floor are full. Can anyone please advise a deterrent or cure?