Ladybugs are prevalent throughout Saskatchewan this month before going into hibernation, experts say. Georgiana Antochi-Crihan, the City of Saskatoon’s entomologist, mentioned that ladybug populations fluctuate in cycles, with the current period experiencing a boom. This increase is largely influenced by the availability of food, as ladybugs primarily feed on aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, and other pests.
While Ashley Thompson, the manager of parks technical services for the City of Regina, noted a significant aphid population rather than a noticeable ladybug surge, Vesna Fa in North Battleford observed a similar abundance of aphids during the summer. Fa, the executive director of Midwest Food Resources, emphasized the importance of preserving ladybugs as beneficial garden allies.
Candace Savage, chair of Wild About Saskatoon, emphasized the significance of celebrating the province’s diverse ladybug population for their environmental contributions. Antochi-Crihan highlighted the various native and introduced ladybug species in Saskatchewan, with the seven-spotted lady beetle being the most common introduced species recognizable by its namesake spots.
As ladybugs prepare for hibernation, Thompson explained that they are currently gathering in warm locations, such as against building walls, in Regina. Antochi-Crihan mentioned that ladybugs have natural mechanisms, including antifreeze compounds, to survive the harsh prairie winter. The ladybug population is expected to rise again in the spring as they emerge from hibernation.