Ladybirds/bugs/beetles

[gingertrish]

I was just sat in my room when I noticed something flying around the light, when it landed I found a red lady bird/bug/beetle with 20 spots (could be 22).

I have looked on the internet and found all different species but not this one, is this a new species of Red ladybird that has mated with the yellow that has the 20 spots? or is this one common.

I am also assuming that this one is awake because it has been so warm but now freezing again so he has come in to find the warmth.

Perhaps someone can help me as to whether this is a rare species?

Thank you

[tristanba]

probably a Harlequin ladybird - they like hibernating indoors and are now common

[Acutipuerilis]

And there are many different colour forms as well, including some with a lot of spots.

[htcdude]

Here are just some of the Harlequin Ladybird variations:

How to Identify Harlequin Ladybirds

Nige

[Paul mabbott]

Yes, as the days get brighter overwintering ladybirds start flying about. You've probably got the succinea form of Harmonia axyridis, the 'harlequin' ladybird, as mentioned below. This form can have anything between 0 and 25 black spots.

[Geoff F]

Have you checked out the 24 spot Ladybird (Subcoccinella 24 punctata).

The number of spots is a bit variable. It lacks any white on the pronotum and is quite a bit smaller than Harlequins.

Even smaller than the common 7 spot.

I would be surprised if it was this species, but something to check out as I do find them relatively early in the Spring; in the far south area.

[Paul mabbott]

Originally Posted by Geoff F

Have you checked out the 24 spot Ladybird (Subcoccinella 24 punctata)...........I would be surprised if it was this species, but something to check out as I do find them relatively early in the Spring; in the far south area.

Yes, it would be interesting to know where ginger... is - S24p is pretty uncommon outside of SE England and they don't fly too readily!