Lace Bug (specifically likely a wing fragment or exuvia)

Natural Habitat

Found on the undersides of leaves of specific host plants, including trees (like sycamores, oaks) and shrubs (like azaleas, rhododendrons).

Diet & Feeding

Sap-suckers that feed on the fluids from plant cells on the underside of leaves, causing stippling or bleaching of foliage.

Behavior Patterns

They tend to cluster on the undersides of leaves where their feeding causes yellow or white spots on the upper leaf surface. They deposit distinct hard, varnish-like black excrement spots.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered garden pests as heavy infestations can damage ornamental plants, causing leaves to turn gray or yellow and drop prematurely. They do not bite humans or cause structural damage, though they can occasionally land on people and cause mild skin irritation.

Identified on: 2/8/2026