In spring, after overwintering in large aggregations in the mountains, adults migrate to agricultural fields, grasslands, and other rural areas. This flight is for dispersal to find food (like aphids) and suitable places to lay their eggs. Flight activity and aerial density peak in the midsummer months. This is often when significant mating and egg-laying take place. As temperatures cool in the fall, there is a final dispersal event before the beetles seek out high-elevation, sheltered spots for overwintering.

Insect Data

Names and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: Convergent Lady Beetle
  • Synonyms: Coccinella (Hippodamia) convergens, Coccinella modesta, Hippodamia juncta, Hippodamia convergens var. obsoleta, Hippodamia praticola
  • Order: Coleoptera (Beetles)
  • Family: Coccinellidae (Ladybugs or Ladybirds)
  • Genus Information: 7 species in NV, 17 in CA, 19 in US

Distribution

  • Distribution: North and Central America
  • Seen: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (3/31)
  • Habitat: H. convergens tend to be more successful and more likely to survive to adulthood in warmer temperatures. In some areas, they gather on sunflower patches, having moved from wheat fields. They use the petioles of the sunflowers to hydrate, particularly in arid summer months. They populate grasslands, forests, agricultural fields, gardens, and national parks.
  • Food: soft-bodied insects, with aphids being the primary food resource

Photographs

Convergent Lady Beetle (Hippodamia convergens)

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (3/31)

Convergent Lady Beetle (Hippodamia convergens)

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (3/31)