Minute Pirate Bug

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas on flowers and agricultural crops.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist predator that eats aphids, thrips, mites, and small caterpillars; also feeds on plant juices and pollen.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal and active during the summer months. Known for their fast movement and ability to fly. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Extremely beneficial for natural pest control in gardens and farms. While they do not feed on blood or transmit disease, they are known to bite humans occasionally, which can be surprisingly painful for their size.

Identified on: 2/19/2026