Attack of the Ladybugs

A couple of weeks ago we were swarmed by ladybugs. All over our uniforms, weapons, everything...Perhaps some kind of mating season?

I guess they are a type of beetle, but it is their capricious nature and coloring that makes them so alluring. They travel across fingers and hands and can be transferred from one hand to the other. It seems they are loath to fly off. I am always reminded that it is their coloring that makes people not swat them or crush them.

Here is a not very focused picture of one on my weapon. It was scurrying around, and the contrast of the red on the black was dramatic. Yeah, I know the weapon has some dust on it...

Are you guys ok out there?