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Have you noticed a sudden influx of red, orange, or yellow beetles inside your Tennessee home or clustered on the sunny side of your house? While they might look like harmless ladybugs, chances are you’re dealing with Asian lady beetles.
Unlike native ladybugs, Asian lady beetles can bite, leave stains, and invade homes by the hundreds. Let’s look at how to identify them, why they swarm in the fall, and most importantly, how to keep them out of your home.
What Are Asian Lady Beetles and Why Are They a Problem?
Asian lady beetles are often mistaken for ladybugs, but there are key differences:
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Color: They range from red to orange to yellow, while ladybugs stay bright red.
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Shape: Ladybugs are round and dome-shaped, while Asian lady beetles are more oval.
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Spots: Ladybugs have neat, distinct spots; Asian lady beetles’ spots are irregular.
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Head Markings: Asian lady beetles have a distinctive black “M” shape on their heads.
Why they’re a problem:
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They bite when threatened.
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They release a foul odor and can trigger minor allergic reactions.
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They invade homes in large numbers each fall.
Why Do Asian Lady Beetles Invade in the Fall?
As temperatures drop, Asian lady beetles look for warm, sheltered places to overwinter.
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Attracted to sunlight: They gather on sunny, south-facing walls.
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Sneak indoors: They slip through cracks, gaps, and poorly sealed windows or doors.
This is why an Asian lady beetle invasion is especially common in Middle Tennessee from September through November.
How Long Do Swarms Last?
Swarming usually lasts a few weeks during peak fall temperatures. Once inside, beetles hide in:
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Attics
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Wall voids
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Other warm, secluded spaces
You may see activity again in spring or during warm winter days when they wake from dormancy.
What Attracts Asian Lady Beetles to Your Home?
Your home may be a magnet if it has:
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Light-colored siding, especially on sunny walls
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Other beetles are already present (they release pheromones to attract more)
How to Keep Asian Lady Beetles Out
The best defense is prevention. Before cool weather sets in, take steps like:
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Sealing cracks with caulk or weatherstripping
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Installing screens on vents and chimneys
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Adding door sweeps and sealing gaps around windows
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Using yellow bug lights instead of bright white bulbs
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Scheduling a professional perimeter pest control treatments in early fall
If beetles are already inside, vacuum them up instead of squishing them to avoid stains and odor.
Do Natural Repellents Work?
Some homeowners try DIY repellents like citronella, vinegar, cloves, bay leaves, or essential oils (lemongrass, tea tree, garlic). While these scents may discourage beetles temporarily, they are not long-lasting or highly effective. If you prefer a greener approach, All-American offers a green pest control service for homeowners in Middle Tennessee.
Are Asian Lady Beetles Ever Beneficial?
Yes—but mostly outdoors. They were originally introduced to the U.S. to control aphids and still play a role in agriculture. However, inside homes, they’re considered an invasive nuisance.
When to Call a Pro for Asian Lady Beetles in Tennessee
It’s time to get help if:
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You’ve had repeated infestations in the past
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You see large swarms inside or outside your home
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You want a preventive treatment before fall swarming begins
Protect Your Tennessee Home from Asian Lady Beetles
Asian lady beetles don’t have to take over your home this fall. With All-American Pest Control’s fall perimeter treatments, you can stop infestations before they begin or eliminate existing beetles quickly and effectively.
Schedule your pest inspection today and enjoy a pest-free home this season.
Contact Us for Asian Lady Beetle Control
Dependable Pest Control in Nashville, TN & Nearby Neighborhoods
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: West End Heights, Bellevue, Brick Church, Charlotte Park, 12 South, Belmont, Burton Hills, Donelson, Edgehill, Ensworth, Hillsboro Village, Hillsboro West End, Melrose, Music Row, Radnor, Shelby Park, Sylvan Park, The Nations, Wedgewood Houston, West Nashville, Whites Creek, and the entire Davidson County and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or schedule a free home evaluation today.