Whenever you hike at Redwood Regional Park, you pass signs about the famous ladybugs and their annual migratory visit.  We’re here to report this isn’t a myth or something that only scientists witness anymore.

Just a few weeks ago, one lucky hiker provided video proof of their existence!  The beetles are here, literally swarming around the Prince and Stream trail intersection.  They have the good sense to stay off actual dirt trails, but seem to be everywhere else.

So what’s the deal with ladybugs?  According to this SFSU paper, these creatures are true survivors.  All they really need are some aphids to fuel their propagation, and above-freezing temperatures.  The Mediterranean-like conditions around here suit them particularly well.

KQED Quest showed off our local ladybugs last year, which you can view here or below.   “We should be in awe of these beetles,” explained Redwood naturalist Linda Yemoto, because they’re able to catch just the right winds to arrive at their winter stomping grounds – in the same exact trees and places annually.  No scientists have figured out why this perfect migration happens.

We tend to hit these Redwood trails maybe once or twice a month but haven’t been lucky enough to find the beetles in residence.  Naturalist Yemoto said the park hosts “a pajama party for ladybugs” which lasts all winter long.  It’s been cold lately, so they are probably burrowing and getting some sleep right now.

The Park District plans to show wintering sites at their upcoming Thousands of Ladybugs program, on Sunday, January 18th, from 10 am – noon.  No registration is required for this free activity, which meets at the Skyline entrance (map) to Redwood Regional Park.  For questions, please call:  (510) 521-6887.