Asian Lady Bugs Found in Rodent Bait Stations in Millstone, NJ
Challenge
We returned to this property in Millstone, NJ, for a follow visit for mice. As we were inspecting the rodent bait stations and replenishing the bait inside them, we found one that was loaded with Asian ladybugs. Most ladybug species don't pose a health threat to humans, except for one — the Asian lady beetle. The Asian lady beetle was released in New Jersey over a decade ago to combat an invasive plant species that were causing millions of dollars in damages to NJ's agriculture. This ladybug species is known to aggravate asthma and cause allergic reactions in some people. In addition, they exude a sticky, yellow, foul-smelling defensive fluid that stains whatever it touches.
Solution
For treatment, we vacuumed up any and all Asian ladybugs that we found in the bait station as well as around the exterior of the home. Next, at the owners request, we treated all the exterior window frames with a liquid residual application. The Asian ladybugs will come in contact with the liquid treatment as they go about their normal routine. A short while later, they will be eliminated.
