However, in the home they may be warmed sufficiently to become active. When this happens they are attracted to windows and doors, especially those on the sunny side of the house in an attempt to get outside. The number of beetles increases with the return of warmer temperatures in the spring and during warm, sunny periods in the winter. They do not cause damage to foodstuffs or plants in the home. The beetles leave a yellow stain on hands or fabrics if crushed or disturbed.
Ladybugs are beneficial insects important in the biological control of several serious insect pests.
Both the adult beetles and larvae feed upon aphids, scale insects and mealybugs that are serious pests of trees, vegetables and flowers. Several species of ladybugs are collected and sold to growers for control of insect pests. They play an important role in insect pest management. The use of insecticides for controlling lady beetles indoors is not recommended. Preventing their entry in the first place is the best way to manage lady beetles.