Exochomus quadripustulatus, Pine Ladybird

Common Name: Pine Ladybird

With a length of approximately 4-5mm, Exochomus quadripustulatus is almost circular, convex and shining, with a flange around the base. The color is quite variable and may change with ageing. Usually elytra are black with two larger red comma-shaped spots and two smaller red round or oval spots. The color of these spots can also be orange or yellow, but completely reddish brown specimens may occur.

Though mainly found in areas of pinewoods, it also lives on other trees and shrubs, such as Hawthorn when its preferred pine is absent. Adults are active April to October, feeding on aphids and other pests such as scale insects. Adults overwinter in leaf litter, foliage and bark crevices of evergreen trees and shrubs.

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