Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter Nymph
Community identification

Masked Hunter Nymph

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae
Size
Nymphs range from 2mm to 20mm; adults reach approximately 22mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas like basements and attics, or outdoors in leaf litter and hollow trees.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly insectivorous; feeds on small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, termites, and woodlice.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs practice 'camouflaging' by covering their bodies with sticky secretions and dust/debris to hide from predators and prey. They are nocturnal hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a natural pest control for bed bugs. They do not transmit disease but can deliver a painful bite to humans if handled or threatened.