Smelly STD-riddled ladybirds from Asia are invading our homes

Stinky, STD-plagued ladybirds from Asia could be flying to your house right now, experts have warned.
A Harlequin ladybirdA Harlequin ladybird
A Harlequin ladybird

The Harlequin bugs are infected with the Laboulbeniales sexually-transmitted disease and can give off a nasty chemical smell.

Flying with black wings instead of red ones, the ladybirds are seeking warmth in UK properties as winter looms.

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Rory Dimond, ecological contractor for nature charity Buglife, said: “The Harlequin ladybirds are an invasive species from Asia.

“They particularly like houses and outbuildings and have a habit of gathering together in suitable areas.

“The ladybirds pose no danger to humans - but large gatherings can give off a chemical smell and in centrally-heated houses they may be woken up from hibernation by the warmth and fly around the house.

“Although it is not a native species, they are now so abundant that killing them will have next to no impact and we do note advocate spraying them with pesticides.

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“It is best to remove the ladybirds humanely if you can using a glass and card.”

Facebook user Hannah Molly said: “My dad went out to have a fag and counted about 100 of them and when he came back indoors he had loads on him. It was funny trying to see him get them off.”

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