CoverShots' photostream  

Adult and larva of the seven spotted ladybug (Coccinella septempunctata). The aphids seen here form a large part of the ladybug diet, and both the larva and adult consume thousands during their brief lifespans. The larva (background) will pupate and from the pupa will emerge the adult (foreground) ladybug. The transition is quite fascinating to observe and wherever there are abundant populations of aphids, ladybugs are quite likely to be present. Searching for them and observing their lifecyle and behaviors is to glimpse another world of natures magic :)

Please view the set 'Ladybird Lifecycle' for other fascinating forms which the ladybug assumes during its lifecycle :)

Best viewed large in lightbox ;)

Hoverflies dining on rose aphids.

Best viewed large in lighbox ;)

Many insects consider aphids a major food source and help control populations which otherwise might become intolerable.

Sometimes even ladybugs decide to 'stop to smell the roses' :)

Please view the set 'Ladybird Lifecycle' for other fascinating forms which the ladybug assumes during its lifecycle :)

Sometimes, flowers make fabulous light tents. As well as beautiful hiding places for aphids... and ladybugs on the hunt for them.

Please view the set 'Ladybird Lifecycle' for other fascinating forms which the ladybug assumes during its lifecycle :)