Masked Hunter (nymph)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in and around human dwellings, particularly in areas with dust, such as basements, attics, and garages.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory insect that eats other small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, flies, and silverfish.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs exhibit a unique behavior where they camouflage themselves with dust, lint, sand, or environmental debris using sticky secretions. They are primarily nocturnal and undergo incomplete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as they hunt household pests like bed bugs; however, they can deliver a painful (though not medically significant) bite if handled or provoked.

Identified on: 12/31/2025