Results: Watch Out: "fake" ladybugs
Published on 08/13/2017
Ladybugs are one of the few insects people actually like. But look twice before you let one crawl on your finger. Ladybugs might be good luck, but their lookalike cousin could be bad news. The Asian lady beetle can harm your pet, home, and more. Information provided by Reader's Digest.
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North America does have native ladybugs, but the slightly bigger Asian lady beetle was imported to the United States in 1916 in hopes of keeping other insect pest populations down, according to the USDA. Over the years, more were introduced around the country, and the pest control worked well (too well). Their populations have exploded so much that they've become a nuisance in certain regions, such as Central Texas. The great outdoors (appearance-wise): Would you be able to distinguish the different traits between the ladybug and the Asian lady beetle?
Yes
31%
627 votes
No
45%
916 votes
Undecided
24%
476 votes
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"The main danger is one you don't really see," University of Texas entomologist Dr. Alex Wild says. "They're out there in large numbers; they're not from here; they're eating a lot of our native insects in ways that would have unpredictable effects in terms of pest control." But these bugs can be just plain pesky too (image: Ulcers on the tongue and mouth of a dog that has a very painful bite). What Asian lady beetles issues and facts are you familiar with?
They are small, hemispherical in shape, and can be found with and without spots.
13%
266 votes
Their colors may vary from red, and orange to a dull cream.
16%
313 votes
Asian lady beetles bite. They aren't poisonous, but you will feel a little pinch when bitten. Some people are allergic to the bugs, so wash your hands after you touch them.
14%
288 votes
Do not let your pet near the Asian lady beetles though. Dozens of the bugs can get inside a dogs' mouths. The poor pups will become lethargic, get ulcers, and start foaming at the mouth. If any get at your pet, remove the bugs with your fingers.
9%
183 votes
You do not want to squash them, because Asian lady beetles aren't so cute when they're scared. Not only do they let out a yellow liquid that can stain, but you'll smell a musky odor.
7%
145 votes
All of the above
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136 votes
N/A or I am unfamiliar with these issues or facts.
63%
1271 votes
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To get rid of the pests in your house without chemicals, suck them up with a HEPA filter vacuum or sweep them outside with a broom, suggests pest control service Orkin. Asian lady beetles escape the cold by crawling into homes, so sealing any cracks and making sure windows and doors close tightly will prevent more from getting in. Do you have Asian lady beetles in the area where you live?
Yes
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481 votes
No
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1029 votes
Not Applicable
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509 votes
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