Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)

Gardens, orchards, forests, and agricultural fields; often found on leaves of plants with aphid infestations.

Predatory; feeds primarily on aphids (hence the nickname 'aphid lion'), but also eats mealybugs, scale insects, and mites.

Larvae protect themselves from predators (such as ants and birds) by camouflaging themselves with a 'trash packet' made of silk, debris, and the dried husks of their prey.

Highly beneficial to humans as they provide excellent natural pest control. While they may occasionally bite humans if handled, the bite is harmless and results in minor, temporary irritation.