If you have you noticed a horde of ladybirds invading your home this week there is a reason why.

Social media users across the UK have been preparing for the “end of days” as lady birds swarm into homes

One user tweeted: “A plague of ladybirds on my walls and windows, trying to get into the house. Surely the last sign of the End of Days.”

A second said: “Invasion of ladybirds” with a video showing a throng of books on their front door.

“My balcony appears to be overrun by ladybirds. Not seen one here ever before but today there’s 172903299402 of them,” added a third.

If you were wondering why your home suddenly seems to be overrun by the red and black bugs Ecologist Dean Wilson from Horticulture.co.uk may have the answer.

Why are ladybirds invading UK homes?

He said: “We had a sudden turn in the weather conditions last week – a cold snap which signalled hibernation season. Then the warm weather this week has presented an opportunity for the insects to (all at once) find a safe home for winter in ideal conditions”.

While unnerving for those who might dislike insects, this ‘invasion’ is likely to be short-lived and last for a week at the very most.

He added: “It’s likely surprising to see so many ladybirds at once, but they’re not here to take over and it’s likely that they’ll be gone as quickly as they arrived. I wouldn’t expect the 'swarms' to stay for longer than one week at the most.”

What to do with ladybirds inside your home

The insects are completely harmless and Dean recommends leaving them alone if you find them in your house.

Dean said: “We have very little to fear from ladybirds. They are completely harmless – they’ll likely overwinter in a dormant state in or around your home during winter – then fly away in spring to find food and mate.

“I would encourage the general public to enjoy the spectacle and be thankful for the range of benefits Ladybirds bring to the garden.”

Ladybirds are known to eat plant-eating insects such as aphids – helping to protect crops and making them a vital component of the garden ecosystem.

MORE NEWS: