Ladybugs
Annual Influx of Lady Beetles in the Smoky Mountains
Each fall, guests at our Smoky Mountain cabin may notice a charming yet surprising phenomenon: the emergence of lady beetles, particularly the Asian lady beetle. As temperatures drop, these small, vibrant beetles seek warm spaces to hibernate, instinctively gravitating toward sunny, south-facing walls. You might see them congregating in clusters on the cabin exterior—an indicator that winter is approaching. Once temperatures dip sufficiently, they often venture indoors, drawn to the warmth, making themselves at home in nooks and crannies.
Why Lady Beetles Seek Shelter
Typically, this seasonal influx occurs as daylight shortens and outdoor temperatures drop. Asian lady beetles were introduced to the United States largely for agricultural pest control, and although they play a beneficial role in gardens by devouring aphids, their behavior can be a little bothersome when they invade living spaces. They don’t cause damage or spread disease, but they can leave behind a yellowish fluid when disturbed, which may stain surfaces. Understanding that these beetles are not harmful helps to alleviate some concerns about their presence in your cabin.
Friendly Tips for Coexisting
If lady beetles find their way into your cabin, there are simple and friendly approaches to manage the situation. First, you can gently encourage them back outside by opening windows on sunny days to create an easy exit route. If they do venture inside, using a soft cloth to gently guide them out is a more peaceful alternative to squishing them. Should they linger, a small cup can be used to catch and release them outdoors. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains and the fascinating life cycle of these little beetle visitors—after all, they’re just seeking a cozy spot for the winter!
Other Insects
Being in the Smoky Mountains means you’re sharing the landscape with a lot of local wildlife—including insects. While we have regular pest service and do our best to keep the cabin clean and comfortable, you may occasionally find small insects inside, especially during warmer months. This is a normal part of mountain living, and most of these visitors are harmless (see our separate note about the seasonal lady beetles).
To minimize encounters, please keep doors and windows closed when not in use and make sure screens are securely in place. If you notice an insect that’s concerning or persistent, text us and we’ll arrange prompt assistance; otherwise we ask for a bit of tolerance—these small occurrences are part of the natural setting that makes the Smokies so special.
Bears, Flying Squirrels, Raccoons and More
The Smokies are home to a wide variety of wildlife — and while most animals prefer to avoid people, encounters do happen. Black bears are the most commonly noticed large animal in the area; they are curious and opportunistic, especially where food is available. Please never approach, feed, or try to photograph bears at close range. If you see a bear near the cabin, give it space, keep children and pets inside, and alert us so we can advise. Bears can appear at any time of day, but are often most active around dawn and dusk.
To reduce wildlife visits, always use the provided bear‑proof trash cages and make sure all refuse is secured immediately after use. Do not leave food, coolers, pet food, or scented items on decks, porches, or in vehicles — bears and raccoons will quickly investigate. Lock car doors and stow groceries and trash in the trunk or inside the house until you can place them in the bear‑proof container. Even sealed containers and coolers can attract animals if left outside.
Raccoons, opossums, and other smaller mammals are also common and are skilled at getting into unsecured trash or food. They can be bold around human areas but are best left undisturbed; do not attempt to handle or feed them. Flying squirrels and other nocturnal critters may be heard or seen at night. These animals are generally harmless but are another reason to keep doors and windows closed (or screened) when not in use.
If wildlife becomes a safety concern or you notice aggressive behavior, contact us immediately and, if necessary, the local park or wildlife authorities for guidance. Following the simple rules above — securing trash, storing food properly, and maintaining a respectful distance — will greatly reduce unwanted wildlife interactions and help protect both your family and the animals.