Bug Identifier
Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)
Community identification

Masked Hunter (Nymph Stage)

Reduvius personatus

Order & Family
Order: Hemiptera, Family: Reduviidae (Assassin Bugs)
Size
Nymphs are typically 5 to 22 mm in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in households, basements, and attic spaces where they hunt for other small insects; often lives in dry, dusty areas.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly insectivorous; they feed on various household pests including bed bugs, carpet beetles, and flies.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs exhibit a 'camouflage' behavior by secreting a sticky substance and covering themselves with dust, lint, and debris to hide from both predators and prey. They are nocturnal hunters.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the household by consuming persistent pests like bed bugs. While not aggressive to humans, they can deliver a painful, defensive bite (similar to a bee sting) if handled or crushed against the skin.