Green lacewing larva (aphid lion)

Vegetation, gardens, fields, and occasionally buildings after wandering from plants. It commonly hides among leaves, stems, and plant debris.

A voracious predator of aphids, whiteflies, thrips, mites, insect eggs, and other small soft-bodied arthropods. It uses sickle-shaped jaws to suck out prey contents.

Larvae are active hunters, often moving alone and sometimes carrying debris or prey remains on their backs for camouflage. They pupate in silken cocoons, then emerge as delicate, green-winged adults.

Harmless to people and pets, though the bite of a disturbed larva can cause minor irritation. Highly beneficial biological-control insects because they suppress many plant pests.