Ladybug

The ladybug, whose official name is Coccinellidae, is also known as a ladybird beetle, which is the preferred name used by entomologists to avoid confusion with true bugs.

It is a widespread family of small beetles. Many of the species have conspicuous aposematic colours and patterns, such as red with black spots, that warn potential predators that they are distasteful. They are oval shaped with domed backs and flattened undersides, with females generally larger than males

The majority of the more than 6,000 described species are generally considered beneficial insects, because many prey on herbivorous hemipterans such as aphids or scale insects, which are agricultural pests. Many coccinellids lay their eggs directly in aphid and scale insect colonies, ensuring their larvae have an immediate food source.

Ages 3+ | 1:18 Scale