I believe they are Japanese, and they do usually get into the attic.
They swarm. They can be vacuumed up and released outside (if they are
indoors). They are beneficial, so try not to kill them, but they are
different than our regional ladybeetles. They look similar. I don't
know anything, nor have I heard anything regarding bites...sorry.
Victoria
As far as ladybug beetles biting, I have been bitten occasionally by the
beetles. I know it was a ladybug (or more properly a ladybird beetle,
since I don't really know if it was a lady bug) because when I felt a
bite I looked at the bitten spot and there was a ladybug. I have not
been bitten frequently, and have had no reaction to single bites. It's
not really surprising that they should bite, since they are carnivorous
insects. Their bite is relatively mild, less painful than a mosquito.
>A couple of years ago I heard about some asian ladybugs that had become
>established in New England. They tend to seek out warm places to winter
>over and breed, so they are found in houses frequently
The extension service told me they was introduced in the southeast to help
the Pecan farmers.In the fall they swarm around houses.If only they would
swarm in the spring when I need them :)
Greg