Junk bug (Green lacewing larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and suburban landscapes where aphids are present.

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predators that primarily eat aphids, but also consume mites, thrips, insect eggs, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae are known for camouflaging themselves by stacking the husks of their prey and other debris (like bark or lichen) onto their backs using curved bristles to hide from predators.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and gardeners as biological pest control. They are generally harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if they crawl on skin.

Identified on: 2/24/2026