Bug Identifier
Likely masked hunter nymph
Community identification

Likely masked hunter nymph

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Hemiptera; Reduviidae (assassin bugs)
Size
Nymphs are about 4–8 mm; adults reach roughly 17–22 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Dry, sheltered indoor areas such as wall voids, attics, basements, and furniture; adults may occur outdoors around buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory; it pierces and sucks juices from small insects and other arthropods, including flies, ants, and bed bugs.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs camouflage themselves by covering their sticky bodies with dust and debris, giving them a fuzzy appearance. They are mostly nocturnal and develop through several nymphal stages before adulthood.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a predator of household pests. It is not a bed bug, but can deliver a painful defensive bite if handled; bites are generally medically minor.