Today I want to talk to you about ladybugs. In North America, these beetles are called ladybugs. In Britain, they are called ladybirds. Entomologists, who study insects, prefer ladybird beetles or lady beetles. Ladybugs eat aphids or scale insects. This diet of pests helps plants to grow and thrive. They also eat pollen, nectar, and honeydew. Ladybugs lay eggs in aphid and scale insect colonies. Ladybug larvae will have an immediate food source when the eggs hatch. The wing covers of a ladybug could be yellow, orange, or red, with small black spots. The legs, heads, and antennae are black. However, there is great variation in these color patterns. The foul odor and spots of a ladybug deter predators. Predators think the brightly-colored spots mean that the ladybug will taste bad.
Ladybugs are thought to bring good fortune or good luck. When you see a ladybug, count the blessings you have around you. The spots of a ladybug can be counted, making a wish for each spot. And no spots means love. If a ladybug lands on you, make a wish. If it lands on you and then flies away quickly, the next Sunday will be bright and sunny.
I always take a few moments to enjoy looking at this colorful beetle whenever I encounter one. Here are a few more of my favorite facts about ladybugs. Ladybugs can fly for up to two hours (covering 74 miles). They can beat their wings 85 times per second. They can eat up to 75 aphids a day. The ladybug is the official insect of Ohio. Ladybugs are classified as beetles because of their chewing mouths. They breathe through their abdomen and thorax. Ladybugs smell with their feet and antennae.
“Five Little Ladybugs” is a fun poem to learn:
Five little ladybugs sitting on a leaf, Soaking in the sunshine and the soft, warm breeze. Along came Mr. Bird, as quiet as can be, and snatched the ladybug off the leaf!
Four little ladybugs sitting on a leaf…
Three little ladybugs sitting on a leaf…
Two little ladybugs sitting on a leaf…
One little ladybug sitting on a leaf…
No more little ladybugs sitting on a leaf…
“Ladybug, Ladybug” is another great poem and The Grouchy Ladybug, by Eric Carle, is a wonderful book to read. Please enjoy your visit with a ladybug when one lands on you.
I look forward to seeing your smiling faces soon. And remember to make a wish when finding a spotted ladybug!
Learn even more about ladybugs here!
Melissa