Ladybugs (Coccinellidae)

insects · beetles · colorful

Over 6,000 kinds. There are more than 6,000 described species of ladybugs living all around the world in many different habitats.

Two names. In North America they're called ladybugs, but in the United Kingdom they're called ladybirds. The 'lady' refers to mother Mary.

Warning colors. Their bright red-with-black-spots look is a warning to predators that they taste bad, so birds learn to leave them alone.

Domed and oval. Ladybugs are small oval beetles with a rounded, domed back and a flat underside.

Not true bugs. Scientists call them lady beetles to avoid mixing them up with 'true bugs,' which are a different kind of insect.