Ladybug Control

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During the transition of seasons, an increase in pest issues (typically asian lady beetles and stink bugs) is not uncommon as bugs enter the residence halls looking for warmer climates. Migrating asian lady beetles are a common occurrence in homes for this region of the state and the nation.

Ladybugs are beneficial insects outdoors, but in the fall months they are an annoyance to many as they migrate indoors with the purpose of finding shelter until spring. Migrating ladybugs are a common occurrence in homes for this region of the state and the nation. The insects that look like ladybugs are Asian Lady Beetles; these are not harmful to humans. However, we understand that it could be inconvenient to have them in your room. 

Because pesticides are ineffective in managing the spread of ladybugs, there is very little that can be done by university staff in removing them. Please follow these tips for removing and preventing the spread of ladybugs in your residence hall room:

• Leave windows closed. Ladybugs will find any kind of crack to find their way into a warm building.

• When you find a ladybug, do not kill it. Dead ladybugs emit an odor that attracts more ladybugs. 

• Instead of killing the ladybugs, vacuum or gather them into a plastic bag or other container and take them to the trash compactor.

 

If you do not have a vacuum, or do not feel comfortable removing the insects yourself, please submit a maintenance request through the WKU Housing Portal.

 

Submit a Maintenance Request

Once we receive your request, HRL staff members will be dispatched to vacuum the insects and remove them from your room. Please understand that this issue is important to us, however it does not constitute an emergency. So, please allow at least 3 business days for us to correct the issue. If your request is not completed in 3-5 business days, please contact your Hall Director directly.