Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry, dusty areas like basements, attics, and between floorboards; also found in gardens or nesting sites of other animals.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

The nymph stage is known for camouflaging itself with dust, lint, and sand (giving it a 'dust bunny' appearance) to ambush prey. They are primarily nocturnal and solitary hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by acting as natural pest control for bed bugs and other household insects. While not aggressive, they can deliver a very painful bite if handled or provoked; the bite is defensive and not medically significant, but causes localized swelling.

Identified on: 6/18/2026