Harlequin Ladybird - decapitated - a crime scene!

The Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) was first spotted in the UK in 2003 and has threatened the existence of the native species. Although, an aphid predator it has been reported to cannibalise other Coccinellidae. Originating in East Asia, and artificially introduced to control aphids, it is larger and more voracious than British species that have become part of their diet. Little can be done to control the proliferation of the Harlequin other than spiders and some wasps. (Parasitoid wasp ). The specimen below has met its demise and fixed to the leaf by a web, appears to have been sucked dry by a spider. This was found on the rose bush.