Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter (nymph stage)
Community identification

Masked Hunter (nymph stage)

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Reduviidae
Size
16 to 22 mm as adults; nymphs are smaller and heavily camouflaged.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, dusty areas, and outdoors in bark or leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory, feeding on household pests such as bed bugs, carpet beetles, and spiders.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs actively cover themselves in a sticky layer of dust and debris for camouflage. They patiently stalk and ambush small arthropods.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a natural pest controller in homes. They can deliver a painful, defensive bite if handled improperly.