Are ladybugs actually good luck?

Hey there,

With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, luck is in the air. You’ve probably heard that ladybugs bring good fortune. But what if we told you that not all spotted red beetles are lucky?

This week, we’re uncovering the truth about ladybugs and their sneaky lookalike, the Asian Lady Beetle. Can you tell them apart?

Meet the ladybug

If you’ve ever had a ladybug land on you, you might’ve smiled and made a wish. These tiny red-and-black beetles have been symbols of luck, prosperity, and protection for centuries. Farmers in Europe believed they were sent from heaven to guard crops, and some even thought their spots predicted months of good fortune.

Ladybugs aren’t just lucky—they’re impressive hunters. A single ladybug can devour up to 5,000 aphids in its lifetime! They also have a built-in defense system: knee-bleeding. Yep, they release a foul-smelling liquid from their leg joints to ward off predators.

Not all ladybugs bring good fortune

Not every spotted beetle is a bearer of good luck. Meet the Asian Lady Beetle—a lookalike with a not-so-charming reputation. At first glance, they seem identical, sharing the same round shape, bright colors, and habit of showing up uninvited.

While ladybugs help gardens thrive, their doppelgängers take a different approach: they invade homes, leave behind stains and foul smells, and even bite when provoked.

Can you spot the difference between a ladybug and a lady beetle? Here’s how

How to handle infestation (without crushing your luck)

As the weather cools, ladybugs—and their sneaky lookalikes—find their way indoors. Here’s how to gently send them packing:

🚫 No squashing. Instead of squashing them (which releases a nasty-smelling yellow fluid that stains furniture and walls), grab a vacuum and gently release them outside to keep your home bug-free without the mess.

🍋 Smell ya later. Lady beetles can’t stand strong scents like citronella, citrus, and clove—so spritz these around windows and doors to deter them.

Be a ladybug, not a lady beetle

In life, we all have a choice: to be a force for good or leave a trail of chaos. Ladybugs remind us that small actions can have a big impact. Here’s what we can learn from these tiny role models:

🐞 Be helpful, not harmful. Ladybugs take care of pests and keep plants thriving—find ways to support those around you.

🐞 Make space for growth. Ladybugs know where to land, fostering connections while giving others the freedom to flourish.

🐞 Leave things better than you found them. Ladybugs improve its environment—aim to do the same in your community and everyday life.

Bug out with us

Next time you spot a ladybug, take a moment to admire its beauty—but maybe check twice before making a wish. Ever had a lucky ladybug encounter or an unwelcome guest? Let us know—we promise we don’t bite. 💖

Until next infestation,

Gabi & Bea