Masked Hunter (Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found inside homes, barns, and storage sheds, typically in dusty corners or under floorboards.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator that feeds on small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, termites, and flies.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs exhibit 'masking' behavior by covering their bodies with sticky secretions that attract dust, lint, and sand for camouflage. They are nocturnal hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by preying on household pests like bed bugs; however, they can deliver a very painful defensive bite if handled or provoked, though they do not transmit diseases.

Identified on: 1/12/2026