Parts of Burnham-On-Sea beach turned a surprising shade of red on Monday morning, July 14, 2025, as thousands of ladybirds swarmed the area, creating an unusual spectacle along the tideline. These tiny red-and-black beetles gathered on seaweed scattered across the sands near Burnham’s low lighthouse, painting the shore with a vibrant splash of color that caught the attention of locals and visitors alike.
The phenomenon was not confined to the beach alone. Over the preceding weekend, crowds at Burnham-On-Sea’s seafront witnessed ladybirds clustering in large numbers on benches, railings, and even on beachgoers themselves, according to reports from Burnham-On-Sea.com. One resident described the scene as "beautiful and a bit surreal," noting, "They were everywhere — on the sand, the walls, even landing on people’s clothes." This invasion of ladybirds, while charming to some, also sparked curiosity and concern.
Experts attribute this remarkable surge in ladybird numbers to the ongoing heatwave that has pushed temperatures well above seasonal averages across the UK. The warm weather has created ideal conditions for aphids, tiny insects that serve as the primary food source for ladybirds. Ladybird expert Professor Helen Roy from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in Wallingford explained that the warm temperatures have led to "very high numbers" of ladybirds because they feast on the booming aphid populations.
Similar outbreaks have been reported in coastal areas throughout the UK, indicating that this is a widespread ecological response to the heatwave rather than an isolated event. However, by Monday evening, as temperatures began to drop, the ladybirds naturally dispersed from the seafront, much to the relief of many walkers who had been navigating the unusual invasion.
While the sight of thousands of ladybirds swarming a beach is certainly eye-catching, entomologists have issued a note of caution. Large swarms can sometimes include harlequin ladybirds, a non-native species that is known to bite and outcompete native ladybird varieties. This aspect adds a layer of complexity to the phenomenon, as the balance between native and invasive species can have significant ecological implications.
The last major ladybird invasion in Burnham-On-Sea dates back to the infamous 1976 heatwave, when swarms blanketed the town and surrounding areas. This historical parallel highlights how climatic conditions can dramatically influence insect populations and their interactions with human environments.
Adding to the broader context, Professor Tim Coulson, a professor of zoology and head of biology at the University of Oxford, encourages people to embrace these tiny creatures rather than fear them. He pointed out that ladybirds are "effective predators of aphids, which can be a major pest of many plant species." Far from being a nuisance, these beetles play a vital role in maintaining the health of ecosystems by keeping pest populations in check.
Earlier in July, a cricket match between India and England at Lord's Cricket Ground was briefly paused due to swarms of ladybirds and flying ants invading the pitch. Professor Coulson remarked on this unusual interruption, saying, "A swarm of ladybirds in a cricket game, even against India, should remind people of the role that predators play in keeping the ecology of Earth in a healthy state." His words underscore the importance of recognizing the ecological services provided by such insects, even in unexpected settings.
For those interested in supporting ladybirds and other beneficial insects during this warm spell, Professor Roy offers practical advice. She suggests leaving shallow dishes with a little water out for insects and wildlife, which can be a lifeline during hot weather. Additionally, she encourages gardeners to leave aphids on plants like roses to ensure there is plenty of food available for ladybirds.
With climate change contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves, events like the Burnham-On-Sea ladybird swarm may become more common. Understanding and appreciating the role of these insects could help communities adapt to the changing environmental landscape while preserving biodiversity.
As the ladybirds continue their seasonal dance across the UK’s landscapes, their presence serves as a vivid reminder of the intricate connections between weather, wildlife, and human activity. Whether seen as a delightful spectacle or a momentary inconvenience, these tiny beetles are an integral part of the natural world, thriving in the warmth and helping to keep nature’s balance intact.