the good guy bugs
Ladybugs
Ladybugs are red beetles with variable numbers of black spots on their backs. The most common ladybug in our area is the seven-spotted ladybug. They eat aphids and should be welcomed in our gardens. Ladybug larvae look like dark blue armadillos with orange spots and eat just as many aphids as their parents. Don't kill them!
Ladybugs should be protected and treasured. They overwinter under dry leaves in the garden. Don't disturb them too early in the spring - they need their rest!
Spiders
Spiders are insect eaters and should not be destroyed. They do no harm to plants. They prefer warm, dry places. Spiders are not insects - they have eight legs, not six.
Spiders are 'good guys' and should be welcomed. If they are a nuisance in certain areas, they can be discouraged with periodic sprays of cold water.
Honeybees
Honeybees are well-known black and yellow, furry flying insects. They are beneficial because they pollinate many of our flowering plants by distributing pollen while feeding on nectar. Without them, we would have less fruit. They generally don't bother people unless disturbed.
Honeybees are very useful and should be left to do their jobs. If they are a concern, plants they are attracted to should not be planted near 'people places'.
Ground Beetles
Ground beetles are large black beetles with long antennae that eat decaying plant material. They are one of the 'garbage men' of the plant world and are very useful in eliminating decaying plants left on the soil.
Ground beetles do no harm and should not be disturbed just because they are not 'pretty'!
Dragonflies
Dragonflies are large winged insects that eat small insects, mostly mosquitoes. They are great to have in the garden.
Dragonflies are attractive and eat lots of mosquitoes - what more could you ask for?