Debris-carrying Lacewing Larva / Junk Bug

Found on trees, shrubs, and garden plants throughout North America and Europe.

Carnivorous; they feed on aphids, mites, thrips, and other small soft-bodied insects.

Larvae use specialized hairs on their backs to anchor debris, such as lichen, bark, and the husks of their prey, to create a 'trash' camouflage to hide from predators.

Extremely beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as natural pest control. While harmless to humans, they can occasionally give a small, minor bite if handled, which causes temporary irritation.