Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter Nymph
Community identification

Masked Hunter Nymph

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae
Size
Immaturity range from 5 to 20 mm; adults are approximately 22 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in basements, attics, and cluttered areas; outdoors in leaf litter and gardens.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; feeds on small arthropods such as bed bugs, termites, flies, and silverfish.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs apply a layer of dust, lint, and debris to their bodies as camouflage. They move slowly and are primarily nocturnal hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by preying on household pests like bed bugs. Risks include a painful (though not medically significant) bite if handled or provoked.