Junk bug (Green lacewing larva)

Gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas worldwide; often found on plants with aphid colonies.

Predatory; feeds primarily on aphids, mites, scale insects, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Larvae are known as 'trash carriers' or 'junk bugs' because they camouflage themselves by attaching carcasses of their prey or lichen to their backs. They are highly active hunters.

Extremely beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as a natural form of pest control. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if handled.