There have been reports across social media of a 'ladybird' takeover this week.

People in Yorkshire have been discussing on social media, the 'plague' of ladybirds that they have been noticing on their houses and in their gardens.

 

Accredited Ecologist Dean Wilson from Horticulture.co.uk said the reason is because the 'ideal warm weather' is 'overlapping with the natural hibernation season of the insects.'

He added:“We had a sudden turn in the weather conditions last week – a cold snap which signalled hibernation season. Then the warm weather this week has presented an opportunity for the insects to (all at once) find a safe home for winter in ideal conditions”.

“It’s likely surprising to see so many ladybirds at once, but they’re not here to take over and it’s likely that they’ll be gone as quickly as they arrived. I wouldn’t expect the 'swarms' to stay for longer than one week at the most.”

The insects are completely harmless and Dean recommends leaving them alone if you find them in your house.

“We have very little to fear from ladybirds. They are completely harmless – they’ll likely overwinter in a dormant state in or around your home during winter – then fly away in spring to find food and mate.”

“I would encourage the general public to enjoy the spectacle and be thankful for the range of benefits Ladybirds bring to the garden.”

Ladybirds are known to eat plant-eating insects such as aphids – helping to protect crops and making them a vital component of the garden ecosystem.

Dean added: "While unnerving for those who might dislike insects, this ‘invasion’ is likely to be short-lived and last for a week at the very most."

Got any pictures? Send them to chelsie.sewell@newsquest.co.uk