Professor Mikhail Geldnikov, head of the Department of Biology and Chemistry at Smolensk University, stated that ladybugs should not be touched because they secrete a toxic liquid as a defense mechanism.
He says: "When a ladybug feels threatened, it secretes a toxic orange fluid called hemolymph through the joints of its legs. This fluid is similar to insect blood and contains the toxic and bitter substance cantharidin. This defense mechanism helps it protect itself from birds and other predators. Although the ladybug's venom is not dangerous to humans in its concentrated form, it can cause irritation and an allergic reaction if it comes into contact with sensitive skin. If a ladybug is crushed, it can leave stubborn stains on clothing."
The biologist confirms that despite the bright and contrasting warning colors of these insects, they do not frighten the birds that feed on them.
Dr. Stanislav Paletsky, an allergist and immunologist at the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of the Russian Federal Service for Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing (Rospotrebnadzor), points out that summer allergies are not limited to bites from mosquitoes, flies, bees, and wasps, but also include contact with some non-stinging insects, including beetles. This is because insect allergies are not limited to bites or stings; they can also occur as a result of direct contact with the insect, inhaling parts of its body, or inhaling its excrement.
