Ladybugs reproduce sexually. Each species of ladybug has its own pheromones for attracting a mate. When they find each other, the male grips the female from behind and holds on tight. They can copulate (stay together) for more than 2 hours at a time. Female ladybugs can store a male’s sperm for 2-3 months before laying eggs. Ladybugs tend to lay their eggs where food is abundant. (source)
These two Convergent Ladybugs, Hippodamia convergens, were photographed recently in a greenhouse in Southern Idaho.
