Masked Hunter Nymph (Camouflaged)

Scientific Name: Reduvius personatus

Order & Family: Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae (Assassin Bugs)

Size: Nymphs vary from a few millimeters up to 15mm; adults are 17-22mm.

Masked Hunter Nymph (Camouflaged)

Natural Habitat

Found in dusty corners of homes, basements, attics, and garages; naturally found in wooded areas and caves.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; feeds on common household pests like bed bugs, silverfish, woodlice, flies, and carpet beetles.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs cover themselves in dust, lint, and debris as a form of camouflage to ambush prey and avoid detection. This sticky coating makes them look like a walking ball of dust. They are active hunters rather than web-builders.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial as they eat household pests. However, if handled or threatened, they can inflict a painful bite similar to a bee sting. They do not transmit diseases.

Identified on: 2/12/2026