The ladybird, also known as a ladybug, is a small beetle belonging to the family Coccinellidae. These insects are easily recognized by their round bodies and bright colors, often red or orange with black spots. Ladybirds are beneficial to gardens as they feed on pests like aphids, helping to control their populations. Ladybirds undergo a complete metamorphosis, starting as eggs, then hatching into larvae, and finally transforming into adults. They are found in various habitats, including gardens, forests, and fields. With over 5,000 species worldwide, ladybirds play an important role in maintaining ecological balance.