A rather attractive and distinct ladybird with a bright orange body and 16 white spots. It is slightly smaller and more elongated than a 7-spot Ladybird in size and shape. The elytra and pronotum are oddly opaque when viewed closely, giving it a rather unique appearance. The very rare and possibly adventive 12-spot Ladybird (Vibidia duodecimguttata) is similar but is slightly smaller, with fewer spots in a different arrangment.
Distribution in Ireland: Widespread and relatively common over much of Ireland.
Habitat: Primarily an inhabitant of deciduous woodlands where it favours oaks, Sycamore and Ash. It can sometimes be found on other tree species such as Hawthorn, birches and willows. Aside from deciduous woodlands, it also inhabits parkland, mixed woodland, farmland and mature gardens.
Habits: A fairly common non-predatory species which feeds on mildews on deciduous trees. Its arboreal habits mean it can be difficult to find if solely relying on visual searching, so beating the lower branches of trees over a tray or white sheet is usually more productive. Overwintering sites include bark crevices of deciduous trees, among Ivy and sometimes among coniferous trees and shrubs such as Scots Pine and Lawson Cypress. Occasionally, it can also be found among leaf litter or on shleterd faces of walls and stonework.
