Masked Hunter (Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in and around human structures, piles of debris, and in wooded areas with abundant leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs practice active camouflage by covering their bodies with sticky secretions that trap dust, lint, and sand (the 'mask'). They are nocturnal hunters and undergo incomplete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by acting as a natural pest control for bed bugs and indoor pests; however, they can deliver a very painful bite if handled or threatened, though they do not transmit diseases.

Identified on: 5/20/2026