Happy Monday! I hope you’re well.

Today’s photo is of the beautiful Eleven-Spotted Ladybird – Coccinella undecimpunctata.

Originally from the northern hemisphere but now widespread throughout New Zealand, supposedly introduced in 1874 by the Canterbury Acclimatization Society (which would make it the earliest biological pest control agent deliberately released into New Zealand). Often found in low growing vegetation, grasslands, vegetable gardens etc, they feed on a variety of insects including aphids.

The adults are mainly coloured red and black. The wing covers are red with 11 black spots. The size and arrangement of spots may vary and the small front spots may become very small almost invisible. They hibernate mid autumn and throughout winter. In spring, females feed and lay eggs, larvae may be present from around late September. (I must make a note in my diary so I remember to keep an eye out).

If you have a few minutes, I recommend having a wee read of their full profile on the landcare research website.

Anyway, thanks for visiting/supporting. Have a wonderful week. 🙂