Junk bug (Green lacewing larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas, often found on leaves or bark.

Diet & Feeding

Voracious predators of aphids, mites, scale insects, and other soft-bodied garden pests.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae are known for camouflaging themselves by attaching debris, such as dust, plant material, and the sucked-dry carcasses of their prey, to their backs using hooked bristles.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem as biological pest control; however, they may occasionally provide a minor, harmless nip to human skin if handled.

Identified on: 2/5/2026