What is the state insect of Massachusetts? Why is there a state insect of Massachusetts?

The ladybug or lady beetle is the official insect of Massachusetts. It became the official insect through the work of a second grade class in Franklin. These second graders learned the state symbols including the state bird, the chickadee, and the state fish, the cod. Then they wanted to know why there wasn’t a state bug? The discussion led to a consensus among the class that Massachusetts deserved a state bug. The class, led by a creative teacher, began the process to make the ladybug the state insect of Massachusetts.

The ladybug is a beneficial insect because it feeds on insects in the garden that damage plants. They are available online and introduced to control aphids and other insects. Before introducing ladybugs, consider other beneficial insects, like green lacewings, that are more effective. The enemy of my enemy is my friend in the landscape.