Asian lady beetles are known to be attracted to houses with light-colored exteriors, particularly those that are white or yellow. This is because these colors resemble the flowers that the beetles feed on in their natural habitat. The beetles are also drawn to areas that are exposed to the afternoon sun, as they prefer warm and sunny environments.
I have personally observed this attraction in my own garden. I have a white-painted fence that often becomes a gathering spot for Asian lady beetles. On sunny afternoons, I can see them congregating on the fence, especially in areas that receive the most sunlight. It is fascinating to watch them as they flutter around, seemingly enjoying the warmth and light.
It is worth noting that Asian lady beetles do not cause structural damage to houses like termites do. However, they can still be a nuisance due to their unpleasant odor and staining abilities. When agitated or crushed, these beetles release a yellowish fluid that emits a distinct smell. This odor can be quite strong and unpleasant, especially when there are large numbers of beetles present.
Additionally, Asian lady beetles have a habit of excreting a yellowish substance called “reflex blood” when they feel threatened. This substance can stain walls, fabrics, and other surfaces if it comes into contact with them. I have had personal experience with this issue when I accidentally squashed a lady beetle while trying to shoo it away. The resulting stain on my wall was not easy to remove, and it served as a reminder to handle these beetles with care.
To summarize, Asian lady beetles are attracted to houses with light-colored exteriors, such as white or yellow. They also prefer areas that are exposed to the afternoon sun. While they do not cause structural damage, they emit an unpleasant odor and can stain walls and fabrics if agitated or crushed. It is important to be aware of these tendencies and take appropriate measures to prevent infestations or minimize their impact.
