Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)
Community identification

Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Hemiptera/Reduviidae
Size
Nymphs are 5 to 15 mm; adults reach 20 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found inside buildings, homes, and crevices where dust accumulates

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on lace bugs, bed bugs, flies, and other small arthropods

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs exhibit 'masking' camouflage by covering their bodies with dust, lint, and debris to stalk prey; primarily nocturnal

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a natural predator of indoor pests like bed bugs, but can deliver a painful (though not toxic) bite to humans if handled