What are the orange beetles invading Kansas homes?

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Tiny orange beetles are taking over some homes across Kansas this fall as temperatures grow colder.

If you've noticed the presence of dozens, hundreds or even thousands of small spotted orange insects in your home, you may be facing an infestation of Asian lady beetles. Getting rid of them isn't straightforward and could leave you dealing with a mess if not done properly.

Insect expert Professor Raymond Cloyd with Kansas State University said Asian lady beetles, also known as ladybird beetles, are part of the larger family of insects recognized as ladybugs and usually escape notice from most people throughout the year. However, as temperatures decline, the insects will seek out places to shelter to survive the winter.

"This species winters in cliffs but in Kansas we don't have those," Cloyd said. "As days get colder, they move into homes."

Asian lady beetles are not native to the U.S. but were introduced decades ago to help out farmers. The beetles, both adults and larvae, dine on other insects which can help boost the agricultural health of the nation.

"They're effective predators of many insects, primarily aphids," Cloyd said. "They're effective predators of soybean aphids."

Cloyd said the beetles are now widespread in many parts of the world and are accepted for the benefits they bring to plant production. Issues typically arise as fall arrives and the beetles seek out places to spend the winter, congregating in windowsills or getting into houses, sometimes gathering in large numbers.

Homeowners facing the arrival of unwelcome guests like the Asian lady beetle can take a few steps to remove them from the house without harming them. Cloyd recommends using a vacuum if there are many of them present then emptying the insects outside. He said making sure that cracks and holes in the foundations of homes are sealed properly is a good way to ensure the beetles don't make it indoors.

"Ladybird beetles come in and congregate in windows on the south side then they become active in the spring," Cloyd said.

Cloyd said people should avoid squishing the insects as they can stain furniture and clothes easily, leaving behind a long-lasting mess. He said there is also a danger of the beetles getting into homes and dying off behind walls which can create a dust that can irritate some people.

"They're going through an overwintering stage," Cloyd said. "Just don't squish them as they can leave a red stain on furniture or clothes."

Cloyd recommends people reach out to their local extension office for tips if they are seeing high numbers of Asian lady beetles inside a home. He encourages people try to remove the beetles unharmed as they are beneficial to the environment.

"Please remember they are predators, they are beneficial," Cloyd said. "Ignore them if you can, because they won't stay in the house forever."

For more information on Asian lady beetles, check out the K-State Department of Entomology's website. You can also check Orkin's website for removal tips.

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