13-spot ladybird info please.

Jason Claxton · #1 (**permalink**) 08-07-2010, 11:57 PM

I heard that 13-spot has become restablished in the U.K.I read that it is associated with reed.What I really want to know is how to find it,does it run on the ground like an Adonis,will it be in the reeds,does anyone no the best way to search for them.I have an extensive reedbed on my doorstep,and I would like to find them,if they are present.I'd be very grateful for any tips/fieldcraft on how to survey for them.

Many Thanks, Jason

Paul mabbott · #2 (**permalink**) 09-07-2010, 08:34 AM

Yes, Hippodamia tredecimpunctata are found on reeds in reedbeds/marshes but be warned, they only turn up in UK every 20-30 years. It will be interesting to see if they do finally establish! The latest sighting was, I think, in Cornwall or somehwere out west. I think they are found on/in reeds, rather like the water ladybird Anisosticta novemdecim punctata. Like them it has a long, somewhat flattened body so is quite distinctive. That's about the sum of my knowledge!

Jason Claxton · #3 (**permalink**) 09-07-2010, 10:33 AM

Cheers Paul.There were a few records not to far to the west of me as well.And I was hoping that maybe it was a bit more frequent than was thought and perhaps under-recorded,or it was spreading,as we have seen with some other species.
The only way to find out is to look I guess,I've seen plenty of Water Ladybirds whilst I've been looking,often on boardwalks.
I'm hoping that the harsh winter didn't deal the 13-spot a blow either!

Thanks again,Jason.