Masked Hunter (nymph stage)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry, dusty areas like basements, attics, and storage rooms where its prey is abundant.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous; feeds on small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, termites, and booklice.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs exhibit 'masking behavior' by coating their bodies with dust and lint for camouflage. They are nocturnal hunters that use a piercing proboscis to inject enzyme-laden saliva into prey.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a natural form of pest control against bed bugs. However, they can deliver a very painful bite to humans if handled or threatened, similar to a bee sting.

Identified on: 1/2/2026