Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and deciduous forests worldwide

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predator of aphids, mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects

Behavior Patterns

Larvae carry a 'trash packet' of debris and carcasses on their backs for camouflage; they are active hunters with sickle-shaped mandibles

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to gardens and agriculture as a biological pest control; rarely, they may give a harmless localized nip to humans if handled

Identified on: 1/5/2026