Junk Bug (Lacewing Larva)

Gardens, forests, and fields, typically found on foliage where aphids are present.

Carnivorous predator; primarily feeds on aphids, mites, scale insects, whiteflies, and other small soft-bodied pests.

The larva builds a camouflage shield on its back using the dried carcasses of its prey, lichen, and other debris to hide from predators and ambush prey without detection.

Generally beneficial to gardens and ecosystems as a voracious predator of aphids (giving them the nickname 'aphid lion'); harmless to humans.