The Coccinellidae, more commonly known as the ladybug, is a family of insects, well known for their red, orange, or yellow coloring and small black spots.

There are over 6,000 different species of ladybugs across the globe, many of which are considered helpful, as they eat aphids and other smaller creatures that are considered pests to crops.

Though they are commonly referred to as “bugs,” ladybugs are not true bugs (as they are actually beetles). It is more correct to refer to them as ladybird beetles or lady beetles.

So what do ladybugs mean?

Several superstitions have emerged about these amazing insects. While some of them (like the idea that the number of spots they have is indicative of their age) are untrue, these beetles have long held a place in human culture and mythologies, coming to symbolize many things to many groups of people. [Read more…]