Ant mimic bug or Damsel bug (likely)
Scientific Name: Cannot determine exact species from the image, but it appears to be in the family Nabidae or Miridae due to its body shape, antennae, and legs. An exact scientific name requires closer examination.
Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Nabidae or Miridae
Size: Typically 3-12 mm (0.1-0.5 inches), depending on the species.
Natural Habitat
Damsel bugs and ant mimic bugs are typically found in various terrestrial habitats including gardens, agricultural fields, meadows, and woodlands, often on plants where they can hunt other insects.
Diet & Feeding
Mostly predatory, feeding on a wide range of small insects and mites, such as aphids, leafhoppers, and caterpillars. They are beneficial biocontrol agents.
Behavior Patterns
Damsel bugs are active predators. They are known for their slender bodies, raptorial front legs adapted for grasping prey, and often cryptic coloration. Some species may exhibit ant mimicry to avoid predation.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits: Highly beneficial as biological control agents in agriculture and gardens, helping to control pest populations. Risks: Generally pose no risk to humans; they do not sting or transmit diseases. Bites are rare and would likely be mild if they occurred (e.g., if handled roughly). Some true bugs can pierce skin if threatened but this is unlikely with damsel bugs, and the image does not confirm an ant mimic bug which can have a more defensive bite.
Identified on: 9/23/2025