Masked Hunter (Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry, dusty areas like basements, attics, and corners of rooms where prey is available. Outdoors, they can be found in crevices or under rocks.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

The nymphal stage is unique because it secretes a sticky substance that collects dust, sand, or lint, providing camouflage from both predators and prey. They are nocturnal and move with a jerky, stop-and-go motion.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: They act as natural pest control by eating pantry and bed bugs. Risks: While they do not transmit disease, they can deliver a painful, bee-sting-like bite to humans if handled or provoked.

Identified on: 12/26/2025