Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter (Nymph)
Community identification

Masked Hunter (Nymph)

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae
Size
15 mm to 22 mm (approx. 0.6 to 0.9 inches) as adults; nymphs are smaller.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry spaces like basements and attics, or outdoors under logs and stones in woodlands and meadows.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous; they prey on other small invertebrates including bed bugs, silverfish, and termites by piercing them with a proboscis.

Behavior Patterns

The nymph stage is known for its 'masking' behavior, where it covers its body with dust, lint, and debris for camouflage. They are primarily nocturnal and solitary hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by acting as natural pest control for indoor insects like bed bugs. Risks include a potentially painful (though rare) defensive bite if handled, which can cause local swelling.