STD-carrying ladybirds invade UK, here’s everything you need to know

LADYBIRDS carrying STDs are invading the UK with homes across the nation dealing with an infestation of the bugs.

The Harlequin Ladybirds have flown in from Asia and North America thanks to mild Autumn winds.

And now the ladybirds are looking to hibernate in cosy homes across the UK.

Ladybirds have been spotted in Birmingham, Loughborough, Gloucester and Manchester and the bugs, which have black instead of red wings, pose a threat to the UK ladybird species.

The Harlequin carry a sexually-transmitted diseases called Laboulbeniales fungal disease.

Ladybirds have been spotted hibernating around boilers and window frames, ready for winter.

According the the UK Ladybird Survey, the Harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis, is the most invasive ladybird on Earth.

Aaron Greenwood, from Benchill, told Manchester Evening News: “I noticed all the articles on social media regarding the ladybird invasion. I was with a close friend in my flat having lunch and we both noticed a small insect flying around the room.

“My friend made a comment that it was a fly I could tell it was a ladybird as am a nature fanatic. This ladybird flew near my light on my living room roof.

“At closer inspection I could see three more, so I got a straw and envelope and put them in a container and got them outside.”

Andrea Allen said she saw “hundreds if not thousands” on the trees in Torkington Park, Hazel Grove.

Steve McGrail, director of pest control company Pro Kill Environment, said Harlequin Ladybirds recommended sealing windows to stop the ladybirds from entering homes.

He said the ladybirds are not harmful to humans.

Mr McGrail said: said: “They are a non-indigenious species. They are coming inside in large numbers.

“They usually cluster around window frames and they cluster together to gather heat and hibernate in winter months.”