Harlequin Ladybird is another species that has recently colonised Britain and is now seen with some regularity. They are very variable in terms of coloration and spotting, but are quite distinctive and fairly easy to identify from our native spotted species. I have seen a few adult Harlequin Ladybirds in the garden over the last few yeras, but not in any great numbers. Last week, I noticed a Ladybird pupa on an ornamental iris leaf and with help from the local BMERC yahoo group was able to identify it as a Harlequin Ladybird pupa, so there is evidence of breeding in the garden. The attached photos are not too good and a bit blurred, but show the black and white hairs at the front of the pupa, which is diagnostic. Curiously, when threatened, the pupa raised its back end as a form of defence, I guess to make itself look bigger.
No comments:
Post a Comment