Ladybugs are abundant in Saskatchewan this month before they hibernate, as noted by experts. Georgiana Antochi-Crihan, the City of Saskatoon’s entomologist, explained that ladybug populations fluctuate in cycles, currently experiencing a surge. This increase is linked to the availability of food, with ladybugs primarily consuming aphids, scale insects, and other agricultural pests.
Although Ashley Thompson, the manager of parks technical services for the City of Regina, hasn’t observed a significant rise in ladybugs this year, she noted a high aphid population in the city. Similarly, Vesna Fa in North Battleford observed an abundance of aphids this past summer, attracting ladybugs to her garden.
Fa, the executive director of Midwest Food Resources, emphasized the importance of preserving ladybugs as beneficial insects. Candace Savage, chair of Wild About Saskatoon, highlighted the significance of celebrating the diverse ladybug species in the province and fostering habitats for these creatures.
As ladybugs prepare for hibernation, Thompson mentioned that they gather in warm spots against buildings in Regina. Antochi-Crihan pointed out that ladybugs have natural mechanisms, like antifreeze compounds, to survive the harsh winter temperatures on the prairies. The ladybugs are expected to reemerge in large numbers next spring after their hibernation period.