The Orange Ladybird (Halyzia sedecimguttata) is a ladybird native in the UK, once associated with ancient woodlands. It is now increasing in the UK as it has adapted on feeding on various trees. It feeds on mildew. It is said to be associated to Sycamores and Ash but the first tree I saw them on was a Spruce and then every year I see them mostly on Chestnut trees.
But the most amazing thing about them is that they are using the gravestones in Margravine to overwinter, sometimes in big clumps, and it’s been one of my projects to count them at least once a month. The good news is that they are increasing.
