ladybug coloring pages

Ladybugs are tiny, fascinating insects that come in various colors, the most common being bright red with black spots. These famous spots make them easy to recognize among other insects. They are known as “Ladybugs” in North America, but in other parts of the world, they are often called “ladybirds.” Isn’t it a funny thought? A bug being called a bird!

The name “Ladybug” has a special story. Long ago, farmers were having trouble with pests eating their crops. They prayed to the Virgin Mary for help, and then these little bugs came and ate the pests. As a show of gratitude, the farmers named these helpful insects after Mary, often referred to as “Our Lady”, and that’s how they became Ladybugs.

Ladybugs don’t just come in red and black. They can be yellow, orange, brown, pink, or even all black! The number of spots can also change. Some have no spots at all, while others can have up to 24 spots. It’s like they’re wearing different outfits!

Even though their tiny size might fool you, Ladybugs are serious heroes in gardens. They have a big appetite for plant-eating insects and save plants by eating these harmful pests. Imagine, something so small being so strong!

Believe it or not, Ladybugs also have wings! They fold them up under their colorful hard shell. So, when they decide to fly, they lift their shell and spread their wings wide. They can fly as fast as 15 miles per hour!

Interestingly, a Ladybug’s bright colors are a kind of warning to predators. It tells them “I don’t taste good, so don’t eat me!” Usually, this is enough to keep them safe because no animal wants a bad-tasting meal.

Lastly, many people believe that Ladybugs bring good luck. So, the next time you see a Ladybug, instead of swatting it away, let it crawl in your hand and then gently put it back in the garden. Maybe, it might bring you some luck!