Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug)

Found on various plants, shrubs, and trees in gardens, forests, and agricultural areas.

Carnivorous; primarily eats aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and other soft-bodied pests using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

The larva camouflages itself by attaching dead insect carcasses, plant material, and lichen to specialized hooked hairs (setae) on its back. This acts as protection from predators like ants and birds.

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as a natural pest control agent. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous 'nibble' if handled.