Crossword Genius

Beetles - or hens perhaps! (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ladybirds

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'beetles' is the definition.
(ladybird is a kind of beetle)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for ladybirds that I've seen is " Spotted beetles that feed on aphids".)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app