Lively Ladybugs Flock to Memphis in Search of a Cozy Winter Hideaway
Memphis, get ready to welcome some surprising visitors! This week, your windows and walls may just be the hottest hangout spots for clusters of ladybugs eager to find a warm shelter for the winter. Yes, those adorable little beetles, known for their charming appearance and beneficial traits in the garden, have made their way to our fair city in droves.
What’s the Buzz?
On Tuesday, November 19, locals reported spotting these reddish beetles gathered together on sunny windowsills and the welcoming south and west walls of buildings. To most of us, seeing these little critters is a delightful reminder of the nursery rhyme “Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home.” But for the ladybugs themselves, they are simply on the hunt for a cozy nook to hibernate during the cold months ahead.
According to Duane McKenna, a professor of biology at the University of Memphis, “The adults hibernate; they’ll come out on warm days — even during the winter — and be active. And then, of course, in the spring, they establish a new population to keep things going.”
Whisking Away in the Chill
But just a day later, on Wednesday, November 20, Memphis experienced a drop in temperature of about 20 degrees, and those ladybugs vanished as quickly as they appeared. The chilly weather sent them back into search mode, seeking out warmth and comfort. These little adventurers will go to some lengths to find warmth, often burrowing into small nooks and crannies, like chinks in bricks, or escaping inside our homes.
Once indoors, they may settle in smaller groups on your windowsills or any bright spot that catches the sun’s rays. If you find yourself playing host to some unexpected guests, you might wonder how to deal with them. The good news? Ladybugs are generally harmless, but if their numbers become bothersome, getting rid of them can be a bit of a challenge.
How to Handle a Ladybug Invasion
Chris Cooper, director of the Shelby County Extension office, mentions that dealing with these cute beetles can be complex depending on individual preferences. “They can be swept outside gently or allowed to find their own way out,” he suggests.
However, patience is key! Remember that ladybugs are known natural pest controllers. They feed on aphids and other garden pests, making them allies in keeping your plants healthy and happy. So, if you can coexist with these little guys without harm, they might just be a blessing in disguise this winter.
Thank You for Supporting Local Journalism!
As we marvel at our little ladybug visitors, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the hardworking journalists and community members keeping us informed about all the happenings around town. By supporting local journalism, we ensure that vital coverage of issues affecting our neighborhood continues.
The Final Word
So, if you spot these ladybugs hanging out by your window, embrace the moment! It’s not every day that our city gets such charming visitors. They’re just trying to find a warm place to hibernate and eventually help us welcome a new spring. Here’s hoping your ladybug experience is as delightful as their vibrant little selves!
