Caring for a Ladybug?

Hattie H

January 15, 20220 found this helpful

I am currently looking after 2 ladybirds over the winter. They are both active and appear to be doing really well.
I have housed them in a large round plastic container with a lid. It's probably around 6-8 litre in size (the type that bird food sometimes comes in) Just make sure to make plenty of wholes in it for ventilation. I have lined the bottom of the tub with a circle of kitchen roll. Then I have placed a selection of leafy hedge branches inside along with some grass, a few leaves and a little moist moss that I found in the garden. I feed them peeled grapes, lettuce, lightly pre-soaked raisens, and also sultanas, figs ( I split the raisins, saltanas and figs in half) and I also give them chicken breast meat ( I keep this frozen and just defrost a small chunk when required).

I keep them in a place that it not too hot or cold and away from direct sunlight.
I regularly check and replace the food and water but the hedging may last longer and probably will not need replacing as often.

I plan to release them both around March/April when it is warmer. From what I have read it appears that late in the day and near to a food source may be best?

I am in no way an expert on ladybirds. I am just sharing what seems to be working for me. If it helps anyone else along the way then that's great too!

Best wishes to all you kind people trying to care for ladybirds.

It is not good to leave standing water for any insect to drink. It is best to use a cotton ball, sponge, or paper towel soaked (but not drenched) in water. Otherwise, the insect would drown.

Could wet tissue work for the water ?

I have two pet ladybugs at home. I didn't know what to feed them. Thanks for the tips and the advice. It will help me a lot.

I have a lay bug in the house it on the wall it is cold here what can I do for her