Adult Scymnus small lady beetle that feeds on mites and other small arthropods.

Common Name:  Larva lady beetle

Scientific Name:  Hippodamia convergens

The larva of lady beetles is a rather fearsome looking creature. It is somewhat alligator-shaped and covered with bumps and spines. In most species the larva is a fierce predator with sickle-shaped jaws. Despite the small size of the creature, it will bite your finger if you happen to hold one.  The larvae hatch from the eggs in about a week and immediately start to consume aphids or other appropriate food. In a little less than a month they pupate and the pupal period lasts only about one week. When the adults emerge they too feed on aphids, but as fall approaches they may eat some pollen which supplies fat for winter hibernation.