The Probert Encyclopaedia of Nature

LADYBIRD

Ladybird is the popular name for beetles of the family Coccinellidae. There are many species, over forty in Britain alone, and they vary in colouration from yellow to black. Most are predacious, feeding on plant-sucking insects, especially aphids. When in danger they feign death and may release a foul smelling fluid from an opening between their femur and tibia.
Research Ladybird