Harlequin Ladybird

This was crawling about in the garden the other day. It is a harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis. It started invading the UK in 2004 and is well on its way to the north of England. The UK has 46 resident species of ladybird (I know!) and it is feared some of these will succumb to competition from this voracious species. It was introduced into the USA in 1988 and is now the most common species there. 
If you've never indulged in any 'citizen science' before, sending in records of harlequin ladybird sightings is a great way to start.
Have set the moth trap tonight so fingers crossed for a hawkmoth or two!