LINDALE, Texas — If you notice some small spotted creatures that resemble ladybugs invading your home, don’t be fooled.
They aren’t as sweet and don't bring any luck. They are asian lady beetles, and they can be quite an annoyance for homeowners and pets.
East Texas exterminators have been receiving a surge of calls and have made waves through social media. These pests may seem harmless, but these bugs can quickly turn into an infestation if not managed properly.
“Asian Beetles look very similar to Ladybugs, but they are more of a nuisance,” owner of 5W Pest Control Bucky Warren said.
He said his company gets numerous calls per day this time of year for these exact bugs.
Warren and other pest control companies said they typically see an increase this time of year because of the cooler weather.
“They're just trying to find somewhere warm where they can overwinter and survive,” Warren said. "The beetles could be lurking in cracks, crevices, attics, and vents."
He gave pointers on how to keep them out of spaces.
“Sealing up the house and using some natural repellents; like peppermint oil, works well and is something simple that consumers can do for themselves,” he said.
Warren also mentioned pet owners can apply those natural oils to their pets to help protect them from being bitten.
“If you see a few of them, vacuum them up, clean that area. That’s some things you could take care of yourself,” Warren said.
Even a few can quickly turn into a big problem.
"They are pheromone-driven,” he said. “So it's telling others beetles hey, I've got a warm spot here to survive and that's when the swarms come.”
With Christmas around the corner, no one wants to face a pest problem just before their holiday gatherings.
“Especially now around the holidays, everybody's getting ready for Christmas, so the last thing you want is an infestation of insects right before the big day.”
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