Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and residential landscapes on plants infested with aphids.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; primarily consumes aphids (hence the name 'aphid lions'), but also eats mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for their camouflaging behavior where they place the carcasses of their prey and other debris on their backs to hide from predators; they are active hunters with sickle-shaped mandibles.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and agriculture as natural pest control. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if they land on skin.

Identified on: 3/12/2026