Ladybird

Munching through an aphid lunch,
The ladybird family were a content bunch.
With their red body and black dots,
The birds keep away from their feeding spots.

Coccinellidae from the order Coleoptera,
The ladybird beetle is a beneficial predator.
But when food is scarce, it is a fact,
The ladybird will eat each other to adapt.

In medieval Europe so the legend says,
The farmers put their faith into prayers.
Their crops were being devoured by pests - so contrary!
All Hail to the blessed Virgin Mary.

If one lands on you, you will have luck
Despite the haemolymph seeping muck.
With a year to live that is all,
The ladybird beetle is vital for one so small.