Overview
- Widespread reports and social-media videos this week show large numbers of ladybirds clustering on walls, windows and inside homes across the UK.
- Scientists attribute the influx to winter dormancy behavior, with non-native harlequin ladybirds particularly prone to forming large indoor groups.
- Latest advice highlights natural repellents, including bay leaves, whole cloves and citrus oils placed on windowsills to discourage gatherings.
- Pest services recommend sealing cracks around windows, doors and vents, fitting mesh, keeping areas tidy and gently vacuuming beetles to release them outdoors.
- Museum experts note a yellow crust on some beetles is a ladybird fungus that does not infect humans, and the insects can exude a smelly yellow fluid that stains; some specialists also suggest warm, dry weather may have boosted numbers this year.