Community identification
Masked Hunter Nymph
Reduvius personatus
- Order & Family
- Hemiptera: Reduviidae
- Size
- Nymphs are 5–15 mm; adults can reach up to 22 mm.
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in dry areas like basements, attics, or under rugs; also found in gardens and around buildings.
Diet & Feeding
Strictly carnivorous; feeds on other small arthropods like bed bugs, flies, termites, and booklice.
Behavior Patterns
Nymphs practice 'masking' by covering their bodies with dust, lint, and sand for camouflage. They are nocturnal hunters that move with jerky, hesitant motions.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits humans by preying on household pests like bed bugs. Risks include a very painful bite if handled or provoked, though they are not medically significant and do not transmit disease.