A medium-sized ladybird which looks like a slightly smaller, more elongated 7-spot Ladybird with more spots. 11 spots is typical, but these are sometimes fused together or may occasionally have pale rings surrounding them.
Distribution in Ireland: Widespread in Ireland but not common and usually more numerous around the coast. Apparently scarce in the midlands.
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats but particularly those over dry soils and coastal sites such as dune systems, brownfield land, sandy riverbanks and dry scrub. Also found occasionally in mixed woodland, farmland, heathland edges and gardens. Even arable fields can be inhabited by this species. A key prerequisite would be the presence of herbaceous vegetation which does not get too wet.
Habits: A predatory species which feeds on aphids. It is usually found on low-growing herbaceous vegetation or shrubs such as Nettle, Gorse and thistles. Overwintering sites include Gorse bushes, immature coniferous trees and leaf litter, where it can sometimes be found in large numbers. Sweeping open vegetation or beating shrubs in dry coastal localities are good ways to search for this species.
