Masked Hunter (Nymph stage)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas, attics, and basements where dust accumulates; also found outdoors in hollow trees and mammal nests.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous; preys on small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, termites, and earwigs.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs practice active camouflage by secreting a sticky substance and covering their bodies with dust and lint (seen in picture). They are nocturnal hunters and move with a jerky, stop-and-go motion.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Highly beneficial as a natural pest controller, specifically targeting bed bugs. Risks: If handled roughly or threatened, they can deliver a very painful bite to humans similar to a wasp sting, though they do not transmit diseases.

Identified on: 3/21/2026