Ladybird
Predator
Ladybirds are familiar beetle predators whose adults and larvae hunt plant-sucking pests. Their presence is particularly welcome on roses, beans, fruit bushes and young trees. Native ladybirds are important allies, while the harlequin ladybird is a non-native newcomer that can outcompete some of them. A varied garden supports a better balance of species.
How to identify it
Adult ladybirds are rounded beetles, commonly 4-8 mm long, with red, orange, yellow or black wing cases and variable spots. The harlequin ladybird is especially variable in colour and markings. Larvae are elongated, dark grey or black with orange markings, often described as tiny alligators, and are easily overlooked. Eggs are small yellow clusters near prey. Larvae pupate attached to leaves before the new adult emerges.
How it helps your garden
Both adult and larval ladybirds eat aphids, and several species also take scale insects, mites and insect eggs. They work through dense colonies on roses, broad beans, plums and ornamentals. Their larvae are particularly hungry as they grow. A few aphids can therefore be useful food, allowing ladybirds and other natural predators to arrive before damage becomes serious.
How to attract it
Provide a mixture of single flowers, including RHS Plants for Pollinators, to supply pollen and nectar when prey is scarce. Leave leaf litter, rough grass, hollow stems, hedge bottoms and log piles as overwintering shelter. Grow diverse shrubs and herbs rather than one large block of the same plant. Avoid pesticides, including sprays applied to aphid colonies, because they can kill ladybirds and their larvae directly.
Tips
Learn to recognise the spiny-looking larvae before removing them from plants. If aphids are tolerable, wait a few days to see whether predators arrive. Ladybirds may gather indoors in autumn; gently guide them to a cool, sheltered outdoor crevice rather than keeping them in a warm room.
Ladybird: frequently asked questions
How does ladybird help the garden?
Both adult and larval ladybirds eat aphids, and several species also take scale insects, mites and insect eggs.
How do I attract ladybird to my garden?
Provide a mixture of single flowers, including RHS Plants for Pollinators, to supply pollen and nectar when prey is scarce.
How do I identify ladybird?
Adult ladybirds are rounded beetles, commonly 4-8 mm long, with red, orange, yellow or black wing cases and variable spots.
General guidance for encouraging wildlife in UK gardens. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.