The Role Of Lovebugs In South Louisiana's Springtime Environment

(Louisiana) - South Louisiana is being invaded once again by love bugs, and many are asking what purpose they even serve.

If you've walked out on your patio, cut your grass, or washed your car in recent days, chances are you've already seen the signs that the love bugs are back.

Just a few days ago, we had so many love bugs on the patio at home that I resorted to using mosquito repellent to try to move them out. It worked for a minute, but they quickly returned to annoy us.

Where Do Love Bugs Come From?

According to an article by the University of Florida, love bugs arrived in the early to mid-1900s from Central America. The species thrives in warm/humid climates, which is why we see so many of them in Louisiana as temperatures warm up during the spring.

There was a myth that the love bugs were created by the University of Florida to combat the mosquito population, but that simply isn't true.

The Purpose of Lovebugs

Like most insects, love bugs actually serve an important role in maintaining healthy soil. According to AgriLife Today, "During their larval stage, love bugs live in the ground and feed on decaying vegetation, such as grass clippings and fallen leaves. This process breaks down organic matter, redistributing essential nutrients back into the soil, which benefits plant growth."

Love bugs often feed on nectar found in plants; the pesky bugs do play a vital role in the pollination of plants, too.

Read More: Hack to Remove Lovebugs

What Are Love Bugs Attracted To?

Love bugs are often attracted to lighter colors, and that's why you may see more on lighter colored vehicles, and they are attracted to areas in your yard that may stay moist during late Spring and into early Summer.

The University of Florida reports that love bugs are also attracted to heat, vibration, and exhaust fumes, which could explain why you may see so many on your vehicle while it is running or has been running for some time.

Are Love Bugs Harmful to People or Pets?

No, love bugs do not bite or sting. But you probably already know that they are a nuisance because when they do show up in your yard, it's often in swarms.

If you are wondering when love bugs leave the southern states, they usually leave in May for the Spring swarm and again in late September after the Fall swarm.