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Cover Story

Grades 2-3

Ladybugs Lost

Just 20 years ago, the nine-spotted ladybug was common. Now, it and other native species are rare. You can help scientists who are trying to find out why. Take pictures of ladybugs, and send them to the Lost Ladybug Project. (See the website address at the end of this story.)

No one knows why the ladybugs are disappearing. "It could be due to climate change, the introduction of outside bugs or other factors," project leader John Losey told TFK.

A Bug's Life

The project has received 1,000 photos since 2004. They will be used to build a database to track where different species live. There are 5,000 ladybug species. About 450 are native to the United States.

The little bugs have a big job. They keep gardens and farms pest-free. But in some areas, foreign species are taking over. "More than half of the photos sent in are of the Asian lady beetle," says Losey.

Spotted!

The Lost Ladybug Project has found more rare bugs than scientists have collected in 20 years. Even if you find a common bug, send in your photos. "All ladybugs are important," Losey says. To learn more, visit treadwell.cce.cornell.edu/ladybeetles.

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