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One of
the more common of the ladybug beetles (a.k.a. ladybird beetles, lady
beetles) in our area is the convergent ladybug. The number of
spots on the wing covers (elytra) is variable. The key marks are
the slanted white lines on the prothorax, in front of the wing
covers. This is the species sold in garden shops.
The
larva of the convergent ladybird is hunting for aphids. Both
larva and adult ladybirds feed mostly on aphids. It is good to
have these beetles in your garden.
This
beetle is just taking off. In order to fly, the beetle lifts its
wing covers (front wings, which are no help in flying) then spreads its
hind wings.