Junk bug (Green lacewing larva)

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and wooded areas worldwide; often found on leaves and stems.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous; feeds on aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and other soft-bodied pests.

Behavior Patterns

Known as 'junk bugs' because they use their curved mandibles to place debris and the husks of their dead prey onto their backs as camouflage against predators like ants/birds.

Risks & Benefits

Extremely beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as natural pest control. They are harmless to humans, though they may occasionally deliver a minor, non-venomous nip if handled.

Identified on: 4/26/2026