Picture courtesy of the State of Delaware F ew insects are more beloved than the beetles belonging to the family Coccinellidae. Today, they are commonly called ladybugs, ladybirds, or lady beetles. Over 450 species are native to North America, some of which have been introduced from other countries. The best known ladybugs are red or orange with black markings. They look something like tiny Volkswagons whose hard shells are actually wings.
Ladybugs commonly climb up plants or children's fingers, then spread their wings and fly away.
Your house is on fire, Your children will burn. Ladybugs are prized by farmers and gardeners, as they prey on insect pests, particularly aphids. But their biggest fans remain the children who campaigned for their adoption as state insects in several states. Most were adopted in the mid-1970s. At least three states designated particular types of ladybugs.