Eyed Ladybird - Anatis ocellata

At about 8 or 9 mm the Eyed Ladybird is our largest ladybird and its red elytra usually have 15 or 18 spots, but this may vary. Apart from its relatively large size, it is distinct from other ladybirds in usually (but not always) having pale borders around the black spots.

Usually found on pine trees.

Spring to autumn.

It eats adelgids (Pine aphids).

Widespread but local in Britain, perhaps restricted by its dependence on Pine.

Infrequent and local in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 58 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.