In the last week, wherever I have gone I have seen ladybirds. One even, to my daughter’s amusement, landed on my shoulder whilst we were visiting the Tower of London, rested for about five minutes, then flew off!
The most familiar have bright red wing cases with black spots, while others are black and yellow, white and brown, or even striped. The commonest species are the two-spot and larger seven-spot ladybirds, although about 40 others can be found in the UK, whilst in Europe there are over 100.
Ladybirds are brightly coloured, as a warning to predators of their bitter taste, which helps survival. They are also able to give off a pungent fluid to ward off ants, birds and people.
Ladybirds are useful insects and one of the greatest allies of the farmer and the gardener, as they feed on aphids or insects, which are pests in gardens, agricultural fields, orchards, and similar places. They are nature’s own pest controllers and are more effective than poisonous chemicals.
There is a widely held superstition that it is unlucky to kill a ladybird and they are associated with good fortune.
Magical Associations of the Ladybird:
Wishes, prophetic dreams, intuition, abundance, protection, happiness, knowledge, positivity, good luck, prosperity, truth, joy, wish magic, enlightenment, faith, forgiving, balance, astral travel, trust, exploring your past lives, rebirth, defence.
Sources:
Animal Magic: Working with spirit animals and guides by Rachel Patterson