Trash-carrying Lacewing Larva (Junk Bug or Aphid Lion)

Natural Habitat

Found on plants, leaves, and trees in gardens and agricultural fields; occasionally wanders onto structures like houses while hunting.

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predator; primarily feeds on soft-bodied insects like aphids (hence the name 'aphid lion'), mealybugs, thrips, and mites.

Behavior Patterns

Notable for piling the empty husks of its prey, lichen, and other debris onto its back as camouflage to hide from predators and sneak up on prey.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to humans as biological pest control due to their appetite for garden pests. They can, however, deliver a sharp, pricking bite to humans if handled, which can be irritating but is not venomous or harmful.

Identified on: 3/1/2026