Fourteen Spot Ladybird - Propylea 14-punctata
Of the nearly 100 different Ladybird species in Europe, 42 species are resident in Britain. The spots on the 14-spot Ladybird can vary a great deal and in some beetles, the black spots are so small that the beetle appears almost a complete yellow, whilst in others the black spots are linked or merge and there appear to be fewer than the seven spots on each elytron (wing). This attractive little beetle is 5-7mm (0.2-0.3in) long and can be easily missed amongst the shrubs and trees that are their preferred habitat. It can be seen throughout the year, except for the coldest months. The 14-spot Ladybird eats insects, so can be an effective pest control species.