Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter Nymph
Community identification

Masked Hunter Nymph

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae
Size
Nymphs are 5 to 15 mm; adults are approximately 17 to 22 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas like basements, attics, and corners of rooms where dust and lint accumulate.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; it feeds on small arthropods including bed bugs, carpet beetles, earwigs, and woodlice.

Behavior Patterns

The nymph exhibits a 'masking' camouflage behavior, secreting a sticky substance to cover its body with dust, sand, and debris to hide from prey and predators. They are nocturnal hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits humans by acting as a natural pest control for bed bugs. Risk includes a painful bite if handled or provoked, though they do not transmit diseases.