Swarms of biting Asian harlequin ladybirds are invading British homes as they hunt for somewhere warm to hibernate

Invasive harlequin ladybirds, first recorded in Britain in 2004 after arriving from East Asia, are swarming into UK homes in their thousands as autumn temperatures drop. One South Tyneside homeowner described his property as "absolutely inundated," with thousands covering the exterior. Early November is the peak period for the invasion, with the insects favouring south-facing walls and high-up spots such as attics and window frames.

Where native ladybirds are solitary, harlequins congregate in groups of hundreds or thousands and can leave surfaces stained with a pungent yellow fluid.

They pose an ecological threat by consuming the eggs and larvae of native ladybird species, several of which have declined since the harlequin's arrival.

Pest control experts advise householders to seal window and door frames without delay to prevent the insects from getting inside for winter.