Junk bug (Green lacewing larva)

Found globally in gardens, forests, agricultural fields, and often on low-hanging foliage or tree trunks.

Carnivorous; primarily feeds on aphids, mites, thrips, scale insects, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Larvae carry debris (waxy husks of prey, plant matter, and lichen) on their backs as camouflage to hide from predators like ants and birds. They are aggressive hunters with large, sickle-shaped mandibles used to suck out prey fluids.

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem and gardens as a biocontrol agent for pests; they are often called 'aphid lions.' While they do not have venom, they may occasionally provide a minor, harmless nip to human skin if handled.