Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)
Community identification

Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Hemiptera: Reduviidae
Size
15 mm to 22 mm as adults; nymphs are smaller
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in and around homes, dry storage areas, and attics

Diet & Feeding

Insectivorous, feeding on bed bugs, flies, termites, and other small arthropods

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs use sticky secretions to cover themselves in dust and debris for camouflage; primarily nocturnal hunters

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a natural pest control for bed bugs; can deliver a painful bite to humans if handled or provoked, but is not medically significant