Ladybugs are abundant in Saskatchewan this month as they prepare for hibernation, experts say. Georgiana Antochi-Crihan, the City of Saskatoon’s entomologist, explained that ladybug populations go through cycles influenced by food availability, particularly aphids and other pests they feed on.
While Ashley Thompson, the manager of parks technical services for the City of Regina, noted a significant aphid presence rather than a noticeable ladybug surge in Regina this year, Vesna Fa observed a similar aphid abundance in North Battleford during the summer. Fa, the executive director of Midwest Food Resources, emphasized the importance of preserving ladybugs as beneficial allies in controlling garden pests.
Candace Savage, the chair of Wild About Saskatoon, praised the province’s diverse ladybug species for their environmental contributions. Antochi-Crihan highlighted the presence of around 75 ladybug species in Saskatchewan, including both native and introduced varieties like the seven-spotted lady beetle.
As ladybugs gather for hibernation, Thompson pointed out their increased activity in Regina, while Antochi-Crihan explained their ability to survive winter with internal antifreeze compounds. The emergence of ladybugs in large numbers is expected in spring as they come out of hibernation.