Coloured scanning electron micrograph of a seven-spot ladybird in flight

© Power and Syred/Science Photo Library

Coloured scanning electron micrograph of a seven-spot ladybird in flight

With colour enhancement of an image made using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), we get a rare glimpse of the moment when a ladybird has fully extended its wings to take flight. The seven-spot ladybird is found all over Europe and was imported to North America as a form of natural pest control. The bright red beetles’ favourite meal is aphids, a small green louse that is highly destructive to crops. So when you see a seven-spot ladybird in your garden, say “thank you” to the little pest killer.