by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

People who have gardens and farms usually love ladybugs! Not only are they pretty, but ladybugs eat aphids -- insects who are harmful to the plants of gardeners or crops of farmers.

Since people for hundreds of years have loved having these aphid-eating ladybugs around, their name most likely was given in praise of a woman who was equally loved -- “the bug of our lady”! But don't let the name fool you: not all ladybugs are girls! We use this same name for both the girl and the boy ladybugs.





There are lots and lots of beliefs, stories, and traditions associated with the Lucky Ladybug and what her (or his!) presence in your life might mean!

For example, people in Britain many years ago believed that if a ladybug landed on your head, it meant you were going to soon be getting a new hat! If the ladybug landed on your hand, you would be getting a new pair of gloves!

Other people believe that if you find a ladybug in your house, you will soon find money in the same amount as that ladybug's spots! Many people also believe that you're supposed to make a wish when a ladybug lands in your hand. Then, whatever direction the ladybugs flies towards is where your wish will come from!