Latin Name:  Coccinella septempunctata Linnaeus, 1758
                        (R. Bercha, det.)

Length:  6.4 - 8.0 mm

Range: Throughout Alberta

Habitat:  Various

Time of year seen:  February - November (Additional Sightings)

Diet: Aphids

Other: The Seven-spot ladybug is an exotic species that was introduced to North America in 1956.  In 1973, established populations were found in New Jersey.  Since that time it has spread further and is now found throughout Alberta.  Seven-spot Ladybugs are typically red to orange in color with seven black spots - three on each elytra and one in the middle just behind the pronotum.  Newly emerged Seven-spots are more orange becoming dark red with age.  The Seven-spot is typically found in low lying vegetation where it hunts for aphids and other small invertebrates.  It is uncommon in higher vegetation such as trees.  As the temperature cools the Seven-spot Ladybug congregates under objects on the ground to hibernate. (Acorn, 2007)