This ladybug just emerged from the pupa, and is still catching her breath. Most of the ones I've seen just after hatching have unspotted backs; the spots gradually darken over a few days. But this one has all her spots. The "skin" is still slightly traslucent around the edges.
At this stage, for a brief while, ladybugs are moist and a bit sticky. If one is turned on her back on a piece of paper or fabric, she will be trapped and unable to free herself.
It's a vulnerable moment. They spend the first few minutes just taking stock, doing a bit of grooming and stretching, drying off. Then -- lunch! They hurry off to find a juicy aphid.
Well, with you watching over her, we know that she made it through those first vulnerable moments. I hope she lives a long and happy life, full of many good aphids to eat.
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