Harlequin Ladybird

Harmonia axyridis f. succinea

TQ4792 21/04/2022 ©Raymond Small 

The Harlequin Ladybird is a common species frequently found on oak and a range of other trees and shrubs. It is an invasive species from Eastern Asia that established itself in Britain during 2004 and has now become widespread across south-east England. It has very variable markings and measures 8-10mm long. The form succinea is usually orange or red and has 0-21 black spots on its elytra (wing cases).

Harlequin Ladybird

Harmonia axyridis f. conspicua

TQ4692 17/06/2022 ©Raymond Small

This form conspicua has a black background with two large red, orange or yellow spots or patches, one on each wing case.

Harlequin Ladybird

Harmonia axyridis f. spectabilis

TQ4792 16/04/2019 ©Raymond Small

The form spectabilis has black background with four red or orange spots or patches, two on each wing case.

TQ4792 16/10/2024 ©Raymond Small

Harlequin Ladybirds sometimes enter buildings through cracks in window frames or gaps around doors when seeking shelter. As the weather cools during October and November the ladybirds get prepared for hibernation. This period of suspended development in insects known as diapause. Some species do this alone while others form large clusters in sheltered places. When the diapause ends with the warm spring weather they wake up to mate and egg lay. This picture shows several different forms.