Insects have many strategies for surviving winter. Some of these strategies are unique to insects, and some are shared with other animals. For instance, some insects, like ladybugs, do something similar to bears—they hibernate. The adult insects find a warm spot to spend the winter, and frequently huddle in large groups to help conserve heat. During this time, ladybugs become less active and their need for food decreases dramatically. Learn more in this field note.

This Field Note was written by Ashley King. Would you be interested in writing one? Contact Allison De Jong, Field Notes editor, at adejong [at] montananaturalist [dot] org or 406.327.0405. Please visit the Field Notes website at the Montana Natural History Center for more information.