Convergent Lady Beetle

Most people call these beetles ladybugs. The convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens) is one of the most common lady beetle species in North America. It consumes aphids, scales, thrips, and other soft-bodied insects, and you'll often find both adults and larvae feeding. This type of beetle will also feed on pollen and nectar from flowers when prey is scarce. This species can be found in habitats ranging from grasslands, forests, agricultural fields, gardens, and natural parks. The number of spots on this species varies from zero to thirteen! The spot where the wings meet does count — it's called a "suture spot."