Large turtle-shell ladybird Coloring Pages

The biggest ladybird in Japan!

The Large turtle-shell ladybird is famous for being the biggest kind of ladybird in Japan. It is about 1.5 to 2 times bigger than the Seven-spot ladybird you see all the time. It got its name from its round shape and the pattern that looks like a turtle shell.

What does its body pattern look like?

The Large turtle-shell ladybird has a shiny black body with bright orange or red patterns around it.

• It is about 1.1 cm to 1.3 cm long, which is much bigger than the Seven-spot ladybird (about 0.7 cm to 0.8 cm long).
• It has clear black lines on its back.
• The baby larva looks dark and spiky, and a little bit scary.

Where does it live?

Unlike the Asian ladybeetle that eats aphids, the Large turtle-shell ladybird lives on the leaves of trees like willows and alders.

• Both the babies and the adults eat leaf-eating insects.
• You can find them in many places in Japan. Look closely at willow trees near rivers or in the mountains to spot one!

How long does it live?

The Large turtle-shell ladybird grows from an egg to a larva, then to a pupa, and finally into an adult.

• When it is a larva, it often stays on the back of leaves.
• Once it becomes an adult, it lives for about a few months. In winter, they gather together to sleep through the cold.

How to Choose Colors: Show Off That Shiny Black Body!

The Large turtle-shell ladybird has a super cool, shiny black body.

• Main Body: Instead of coloring it pitch black, try mixing in a little dark gray or dark brown. This makes the black look rich and deep.
• Border Colors: Color the red border around its body carefully. It is also fun to try coloring it orange or yellow instead of red!
• Adding Highlights: Since its body is shiny, leave some parts white or color them light gray. This makes it look shiny just like a real one!

How to Color the Round Shape: Think About Light and Shadows!

The back of a Large turtle-shell ladybird is smooth and round. Think about light and shadows to show off this shape.

• Shadowy Spots: Use a slightly darker color on the bottom of the body and in the grooves of the wings. For example, use an even darker black over black. This makes it look round and 3D!
• Bright Spots: Keep the color a little lighter near the middle of its back. It will look like light is hitting it, making it look even more real!

Tips for Enjoying Your Coloring Page!

• Color Freely!
• You do not have to use real colors. You can color it any way you like! How about a ladybird with a blue body or rainbow borders? That sounds like fun!
• Draw a Background!
• What kind of leaf is your Large turtle-shell ladybird sitting on? Draw some willow leaves or alder leaves to bring your picture to life!