[5] This species can be from subalpine altitudes to as low as sea level[1][6] and are common in areas where they live.

[14] In the few days leading up to the eggs hatching they begin to darken to a greyish colour.

[4] Larvae hatch from the eggs by breaking the shell with sharp, circular structures on the back of their head called egg-busters.

[13] In order to molt its skin the larva hangs itself upside down by the anal organ.

[13] When the adult beetle emerges its elytra does not yet have its distinctive pattern and is instead matte, soft and pale.

[14] It can take up to months for the beetle to reach its full mature appearance[14] After emerging the adult will then either search for food, mate or prepare to hibernate depending on the time of year.

[15] As adults, ladybirds spend the winter grouped in hidden and sheltered spots, dispersing in spring to find food and a good place to lay eggs.

[16] This species has a wide range of habitats and is mainly found in areas where aphids are abundant.

The shining cuckoo[17] and starlings[18] are examples of birds that are often predators of the orange-spotted ladybird.

Another predator is the harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis, which has recently arrived in New Zealand.