Reduvius personatus
Family: Reduviidae
A large and predominantly black bug, although the bases of the antennae and tibae are paler.
This species is associated with humans (synanthropic) and breeds in
houses, feeding on a range of associated insects such as bedbugs,
silverfish, booklice and flies. The bug does not suck blood or spread
disease; it may however inflict a painful bite if handled roughly. The
larvae camouflage themselves using dust and the bug is sometimes known
as the 'Masked Hunter' for this reason.
Recorded mainly from southern and central England.
Adult: May-September
Length 16-18 mm |
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