Junk Bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and suburban landscapes across North America and Europe.

Voracious predator of aphids, mites, scale insects, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.

As a defense mechanism, the larva piles the carcasses of its prey and other organic debris onto its back using hooked hairs (setae) to camouflage itself from predators.

Extremely beneficial to ecosystems and gardens as a natural form of pest control. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if they land on skin.