Small orange ladybug macro cover photo - 106844158

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The classic red color of the elytra of these insects explains the etymology of their name which comes from the Latin coccinus: `scarlet` 4. It serves them as a natural means of defense. The family Coccinellidae was established by Pierre AndrÃ© Latreille, in 18075. In common parlance, we also call the ladybug `stupid to good God`, because she is the best friend of the gardeners the elders predicted good weather when the ladybug flew and especially, because, according to a legend going back to Middle Ages, it would bring happiness6. This nickname goes back to the tenth century. Condemned to death for a murder committed in Paris, a man who claimed his innocence owed his safety to the presence of the little insect. In fact, on the day of his public execution, the condemned man must have his head cut off. But a ladybug landed on his neck. The executioner tried to remove it, but the beetle returned several times to the same place. King Robert II 972-1031 then saw a divine intervention and decided to pardon the man. A few days later, the real murderer was found. This story spread quickly and the ladybug was therefore considered a lucky charm that should not be crushed.

animal close coccinelle coccinellidae insect ladybug macro orange red small