Ladybirds belong to the scientific family Coccinellidae. Ladybirds provide a natural form of pest control with most species feeding on aphids, making them a favourite visitor to most gardens.
In Britain, some 46 species belong to this family, although only 26 of these are recognisable as ladybirds, all of which are featured in the guide. The guide has been created in collaboration with the UK Ladybird Survey, which aims to facilitate the recording of all of the UK's ladybirds, and in particular the invasion of an Asian species known as the Harlequin ladybird.
The guide features clear colour illustrations drawn by one of Europe's finest wildlife artists and illustrators, Chris Shields. Species have been grouped by appearance to help with identification. Information on colour pattern, habitat and distribution and hints to aid identification are provided in a comprehensive table.
This is one of a comprehensive range of fold-out charts produced by educational charity FSC covering all aspects of identification. The 8 or 12 page fold-out charts are laminated making them robust and practical for use in the classroom or outdoors. Clear colour illustrations and text by experts in the subject make these valuable resources for all age groups.