Disclaimer: I will answer any question to the best of my knowledge or experiences.
Also, I you ever have anything to add, dispute, refute, etc., please write insect@ptd.net and I will pass on the information. Like I said earlier, information I have is either for other sources or my own experiences.
New Update, June 23, 2003
I have gotten an overwhelming number of emails about the
Asian ladybug beetles this year. If
anyone has digital pictures they would like to send, that would be appreciated.
It was really unusual for me to get reports of the beetle infestations from much colder northern states. Here in Pennsylvania, with moderate winter temperatures, we have not seen a lot here.
I am reading more and more about the biting of the
beetles. There are now more
explanations about the biting.
Although I have not come across any formal scientific
papers about the beetle bites, I have found several generally accepted “givens”
about the bites.
Most entomologists are saying the “bites” are either from
the mandibles or if their legs. Either
way, people who react to insect bites are reacting to the Asian ladybugs,
either by “bite” or fluidic reations.
These beetles have powerful jaws, but they also have
equally powerful leg parts.
First, they are not malicious “bites”. I have read that the “biting” is a way for
them to assess their surroundings. I
have also heard that they don’t like being molested.
Second, do not crush them, all ladybugs exude a foul
smelling fluid and that liquid does stain.
It may also aggravate allergies.
Third, in large numbers these insects, like any insect
whatsoever, have been found to aggravate allergies when they are in large numbers
in a house.
Fourth, I no longer recommend chemicals for killing them
because 99.99% of people misuse them and put themselves and their children and
family in more danger with these chemicals.
Hire a professional exterminator, who knows what they are
doing. Or check with your local
department of agriculture or natural resources department on how to deal with
them chemically.
Many chemicals have strict federal, state and local
regulations and bans. They are best
suited to help you.
Please feel free to ask any questions you may still have.
I visited your site today and read some of
the articles and looked at the pictures of the Asian Ladybugs and it reminded
me of how my basement looked for almost 3 years. They were nasty bugs!!! They
had a terrible odor, left their dirt everywhere and also bit me quite a few
times. I would suck them up in our ShopVac and old sweeper, then take out the
bags and burn them. Within hours they were everywhere again. I was embarrassed
to have company over for a long time because they literally too over my
basement. They made a nest in my drop ceiling between the basement and
upstairs. I HATED them and I still do. I haven't noticed their presence as much
this year, but I know they are still around, just not as bad. Can you provide
any information on the nasty critters? Thanks!!