I find lady bugs in my natural beekeeping sites where I do not treat
with chemicals.  The owners of the land and I are delighted.  They fade to an
orange/red instead of the bright red.  They only stay for the warmth and as
soon as the weather is back to normal they are gone.
       Sure would be nice if someone could research what they are eating?
Stomach contains should be the answer.  The fading of the color could be the
honey.
       Michael Housel             Orlandobee