Harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)

Image: © Evelyn Simak Taken: 6 May 2018

This ladybird variant is an alien species which first appeared in the UK only in 2004 but has now spread across much of southern England and into the Midlands. Numerous colour and pattern forms have been documented but there are three main forms - succinea, spectabilis and conspicua - each of which showing lots of variation. It is also known as the Multicoloured Asian Ladybird and the Halloween Ladybird. The Harlequin has the ability to adapt to diverse habitats although it is most commonly found on deciduous trees, such as willow, sycamore and maple, and on low growing plants such as nettles. Due to its diet including other ladybirds it has the potential to wipe out some of our native species and for this reason its spread is being closely monitored. The species is now well established and widespread in much of Britain. Harlequin ladybirds will bite humans in their search for something edible; the bite usually produces a small bump and sting slightly. There are, however, a few documented cases of people having a severe allergic reaction to harlequin ladybirds.

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