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Ladybird Problem

Ladybird/Harlequin Control Services

Call your London Pest Control Team on 0203 600 0351

ladybird/harlequin

The Harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) is one of the most invasive insect species in the world. It took the Grey squirrel 100 years to spread throughout the UK – but it took the Harlequin ladybird less than a decade to do the same.

The Harlequin was introduced from Asia to North America in the 1980s to control aphids that were feeding on crops.  However, the ladybird quickly spread across the United States to become the most common ladybird there.  Its arrival in Britain in 2004 was probably accidental though it might have blown over in strong winds following its spread across Europe where it was introduced from North America, again for aphid control.

Over 100 different colour patterns have been recorded which makes it difficult to identify, especially from the Seven-spot ladybird, which is also variable.

Unlike most other ladybirds, the Harlequin doesn’t stick to one type of food. Once it has finished feeding on aphids in the crops it then turns its attention to other ladybird eggs and larvae and even the eggs and caterpillars of moths and butterflies. The main reason Harlequin ladybirds pose a threat to our native ladybirds is that they have such voracious appetites that they easily out-compete native ladybirds for food. It is almost certainly the reason why our Two-spot Ladybird is now so scarce. 

Although they are not dangerous to humans they do hibernate in large numbers in houses and other buildings. There are cases of tens of thousands of ladybirds being found in homes during the winter. In the spring the ladybirds become active again and look for a way out of the house.

Pest control treatment for ladybirds/harlequins - Call 0203 600 0351
 

As with most of our pest control treatments, we usually do two visits as a follow up visit allows us to make sure any actions we take are successful. Our fully trained pest control technician starts by talking to you about the problems you are having before assessing the situation.  Please be aware that the pest controller will often need to inspect other areas and not just the visible source.

Residual insecticides, usually sprays and dusts are the normal treatment for Ladybirds/Harlequins. In houses we normally need to treat the kitchen and the garden areas where the Ladybirds/Harlequins may have originally found their way in.

As with all our treatments, the pest control technician will leave a report with you with details of any treatments and recommendations.  If a follow up visit is likely to be needed, our technician will arrange a suitable date and time with you. Generally this will be about a week or two later and sometimes a second treatment is required.
We are a leading pest control company working in and around the Hertfordshire area, using the latest techniques to ensure your pest problems are completely eradicated.
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