Where did Asian Lady Beetles come from? Were they intentionally released?
By who? The multicolored Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis) is native to Asia but occurs in many areas of the United States. This beneficial insect was imported and released as early as 1916 in attempts to naturally control certain insect pests. But the first populations were not found in this country until 1988 in Louisiana near the busy port of New Orleans. Over the years, federal, state and private entomologists released the insect at a number of locations. But it was not detected in these places until some years after it had became established in Louisiana. In addition, accidental entries have occurred via imported nursery items at ports in Delaware and South Carolina. Thus, it is uncertain whether the beetle’s establishment resulted from planned releases, accidental entries or both. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2000/001030.beetlefacts.htm Do they bite people and/or livestock? The Asian ladybug might take a nip out of your finger if handled. If you get nipped, clean and treat b
