Adonis' Ladybird - Hippodamia variegata

A small ladybird, measuring only 4 to 5 mm. It has red elytra with between 3 and 15 black spots, which are sometimes fused together and tend to be concentrated to the rear. The white pronotum is mostly covered with a black pattern and the legs are mainly black, but are brown near the ends. It is smaller and has a slightly more elongated, oval shaped body than the common Seven Spot Ladybird.

It could be confused with the 7 Spot Ladybird but the Adonis is smaller and more elongate.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box.

it is usually most frequent on ruderal, weedy plants on sandy, open soils but is sometimes found in leaf litter or on rather derelict or industrial sites. 

Best looked for in summer, but can be seen for most of the year in warm spells.

Feeds on aphids.

Fairly widespread but local in Britain, it seems to be increasing in numbers in recent years and can be fairly frequent in suitable small areas.

Occasional in Leicestershire & Rutland.