Junk bug (Green Lacewing Larva)

Gardens, agricultural fields, forests, and suburban landscapes across North America and Europe.

Carnivorous; they eat aphids, mites, scale insects, and other small soft-bodied insects. They are known as "aphid lions."

Larvae of some species carry a camouflage of debris and insect remains on their backs (giving them the name "junk bug"). They are aggressive hunters with sickle-shaped mandibles.

Extremely beneficial for biological pest control in gardens. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-toxic nip if they land on skin.