Lace Bug

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the undersides of leaves of specific host plants, including trees like oaks, sycamores, and azaleas.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant juices (sap) from the undersides of leaves.

Behavior Patterns

Lace bugs are known for their distinctive rectangular, lace-like wing covers. They often live in colonies and leave behind dark, varnish-like waste spots (frass) on host leaves. They move relatively slowly and are most active in late spring and summer.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous 'probing' bite if accidental contact occurs. They are primarily agricultural and ornamental pests, causing leaf stippling, yellowing, and premature leaf drop in heavy infestations.

Identified on: 2/16/2026