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Swarms of STD-carrying ladybirds are invading homes in Kent and a pest control expert has warned people to seal their windows.

A swarm of the tiny insects have reached Kent, with Harlequin ladybirds, notable for their black wings, flying over here from Asia and North America.

These bugs, which may also have red, orange or yellow markings, are more aggressive than other ladybirds, eating them in some cases.

The species carries the Laboulbeniales disease, a form of fungi that is passed on through mating.

(Image: Pam Igglesden)

Although it is not completely clear if it is harmful to ladybirds, it is possible it an affect the number of eggs a female can produce, possibly leading to a reduction in population size.

While the insects’ STDs do not pose a threat to people, they can leave chemical smells and stains in homes they end up in, and can bite anyone they land on if they are hungry enough.

It is believed that the long, hot summer helped boost the bugs’ numbers and that they are now moving indoors as it gets cooler.

While the reports of the swarms started in northern England, they have now started to show up in Kent.

People in Canterbury appear to have been hit particularly hard by the invasion and have taken to social media to voice their bafflement, bemusement and bliss at the phenomenon.

Karl Knights seemed to take to the invasion with a sense of joy:

Likewise, Luna Raye seemed particularly pleased to see her new insect pals, calling them: "A loveliness".

Liam Warner, in a fit of capped up worry, typed: “THERE ARE 800 LADYBIRDS IN THIS OFFICE’.

(Image: Karl Knights)

'Seal your windows'

Steve McGrail, director of pest control company Pro Kill Environment, said Harlequin Ladybirds are not harmful to humans but recommended sealing windows to make sure they do not get in homes.

He said: “They are a non-indigenious species. They are coming inside in large numbers.

“They usually cluster around window frames and they cluster together to gather heat and hibernate in winter months.”

Scientists say a fungus the creatures carry, which is passed on through mating, will infect our native species which are already under threat from habitat loss.

While they do not yet know if the fungus is harmful, the UK Ladybird Survey says it is possible the disease affects the lifespan or the number of eggs a female can produce over her lifespan.

Have you spotted the swarm where you are? Send your photos of any ladybirds you spot to kentlivenewsdesk@reachplc.com.