11-spot Ladybird
Coccinella undecimpunctata
Description
Over all length 4 - 5mm. A small, deep-red ladybird with eleven spots arranged in three rows. The row nearest the head has three spots, the centre one larger than the rest and across both elytra (some have seven spots). The pronotum is black with two white spots.
Habitat
Dry places such as dune systems. These were found on the dry end of the Slurry Lagoon. The larvae feed on aphids.
Status and distribution
Fairly common and widespread in southern Britain with a coastal bias. Less common further north and in Scotland. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.
Best time to see
March to November.