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Eyed Ladybird

Eyed Ladybird ©Richard Burkmarr

Eyed ladybird

Scientific name: Anatis ocellata
The large eyed ladybird is unmistakeable: it is our only ladybird with yellow rings around its black spots. Ladybirds are beneficial insects, managing garden pests - encourage them by putting up a bug box.

Species information

Statistics

Length: 8-10mm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

March to October

About

The eyed ladybird is a large ladybird that is usually found on, or near, conifers, especially pine trees. Both adults and larvae feed on aphids, making them a friend in the garden. The lifecycle of a ladybird consists of four phases: the egg; the larval stage, during which the larva undergoes a series of moults; the pupa, in which the larva develops into an adult; and the adult phase, during which the female lays eggs in batches of up to 40.

How to identify

The eyed ladybird is unmistakeable: it is larger than all the other ladybirds and is the only one that has 'eyed' spots - black spots ringed with yellow. Its wing cases are red.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

The eyed ladybird is the UK's largest native ladybird.

How people can help

Our gardens are a vital resource for wildlife, providing corridors of green space between open countryside, allowing species to move about. In fact, the UK's gardens provide more space for nature than all the National Nature Reserves put together. So why not try planting native plants and trees to entice birds, mammals and invertebrates into your backyard? To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.