How Ladybugs Protect Themselves from Prey

Ladybugs have many interesting means of protection. Their red, orange, and black coloration warns birds that they would not make a very tasty meal, Birds learn that insects that are red, black, and yellow usually sting or taste bad. So they leave those insects alone. Ladybugs although do "play dead" when faced with danger. Many predators will not eat an insect that doesn't move. Also, ladybugs probably produce an awful odor. Ladybugs are not harmful insects. The coloration of a ladybug is the biggest was to keep protection from many feirce predators.