I'm not sure if this is an insect or insect larve. I can't find it in my field guide books. I found dozens in my dog's water bowl and find them crawling all over, especially under my maple tree. I have vegetables growing nearby and wonder if it is harmful to them.

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Hi Richard,

Those are the larvae of lady beetles (ladybugs)! They are completely harmless to your dog and to your plants. 

The female lady beetle must have laid eggs nearby which is why you are seeing higher numbers. Don't worry, they need to find food sources, and so they will move on quickly. 

Ladybugs are very beneficial! They feed on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Perhaps you have some aphids on a nearby plant?  

Ladybugs go through a full metamorphosis just like a butterfly, so most people don't recognize the larval stage of a ladybug since they look so different. 

Here is more information: https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/lady-beetles-5-594/

Please let me know if you have any questions. 

Thanks,

Lisa

Lisa Mason
Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist
Colorado State University Extension, Arapahoe County