Ladybird ID Help

elrosso · #1 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 05:36 PM

Hi guys, looking for some help id'ing a ladybird, or a lookylikey, I found a few weeks ago.

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/1315/dscf0037wj.jpg

I was wondering if it could be a Harlequin Ladybird, but I'm in Scotland so quite far north from where they are more commonly found.
I've looked id charts but cant find anything with the same markings.

Thanks guys

Jason Claxton · #2 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 05:48 PM

Um,what kind of size was it ,to me it looks similar to a form of 10-spot ladybird,I dont know whether they are as far north as you yet though.Jason

Falcon5 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 06:05 PM

I would be more inclined to go with Harlequin or Harlequin/cross. There have been a few sightings in Scotland and it may be worth sending your picture to the Harlequin Survey sight who should be able to id it better. Good Luck

Harlequin Ladybird Survey - Recognition and Distinction

elrosso · #4 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 06:09 PM

I'd say it was about 7-8mm, very fast walking and lively wee thing. I'm a gardener and found it sitting on the handle of my leaf blower. It was bigger than the usual ladybirds I find in the same garden.

elrosso · #5 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 06:15 PM

I've had a look at that website, I still cant say yay or nay though, nothing matches my little guy.

I'll send it in, I just thought I'd try here incase I was making a common mistake. Judging from their application form, they are looking for definitive sighting and dont offer an ID service. I'll give it a bash though.

Jason Claxton · #6 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 06:16 PM

Yes ,the size suggests Harlequin LB,there is a form of 10 spot ladybird just like that ,so had to be certain.

elrosso · #7 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 06:34 PM

Intresting, I wish I hadnt been so busy and could have took a few more pictures. I'll send my info to the harlequin society and see if they respond.

Thanks guys

2dogs2000 · #8 (**permalink**) 10-10-2009, 09:13 PM

They should respond. I sent in a photo of what I thought was a Harlequin and they identified it as a melanic form of a 2 spot ladybird.

Paul mabbott · #9 (**permalink**) 11-10-2009, 09:06 AM

It's Adalia decempunctata the 10-spot ladybird - I suspect the size has been exagerrated: things often look larger in bright sunlight. One way to differentiate this from Harmonia axyridis is that the forebody of the latter has a broad white patch down the whole of each side: this doesn't!