Japanese lady beetles invade homes as temperatures drop

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Japanese lady beetles are making their way into homes across the region as cooler fall temperatures arrive, creating an annual nuisance for homeowners.

The invasive species was first successfully introduced in the 1980s to help farmers combat crop-damaging insects, such as aphids. With few natural predators, their population has exploded over the decades.

The beetles appear tiny and spotted, resembling common ladybugs at first glance. However, they become persistent pests when seeking winter shelter.

“They’re really common in the fall because they’re looking for places to overwinter. They’re attracted to light colored surfaces. They go to fly to the sides of houses, buildings, and they’re looking for little nooks and crannies to sit out the winter,” said WKU