This common species of lady beetle (or ladybug) will spend the winter in hibernation in groups of thousands of individuals and then emerge to mate and start the next generation in late winter / early spring. If you purchase lady beetles to release into your garden, this is most likely the species you will get. The pattern and number of spots on the abdomen is not always the best way to identify lady beetles. Taking a look at the patterns on the head and thorax is more reliable.
Size: Length 4.2 to 7.3 mm
Photo by: Glenn Marangelo on 6/5/22 in Missoula, MT