Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva / Junk Bug

Commonly found in gardens, agricultural fields, and on shrubs or trees where prey is abundant.

Carnivorous; primarily eats aphids, mealybugs, mites, and scale insects. They are voracious predators known as 'aphid lions'.

Larvae exhibit 'cloaking' behavior by piling dead prey remains, lichen, and other debris on their backs using specialized hooked hairs (setae). This provides camouflage and protection from predators like ants.

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardens as a natural pest control agent. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous pinch if handled.