Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Gardens, orchards, and agricultural fields; often found on leaves or bark where prey is abundant.

Carnivorous; primarily consumes aphids, mites, thrips, and small caterpillars using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

Notable for 'masking' camouflage; larvae attach debris, husks of dead prey, and plant matter to their backs using hooked bristles to hide from predators and sneak up on prey.

Highly beneficial to humans as biological pest control in gardens; may give a minor, harmless nip to human skin if handled, but are not poisonous.