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Assassin bug

6395  Found this on our carpeted stairs in the evening. Today it’s been raining all day. We have only seen this one – but unsure what it is. We think it’s an assassin bug but not sure. If so, is it dangerous? What are we supposed to do? Thanks. Orleans, Ontario, Canada

 

Number 6395. This is an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae) called the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus), an introduced species with a cosmopolitan distribution. These are general predators on other small arthropods, and are reputed to have a very painful (but not dangerous) bite. No control is necessary.

Nymph of an assassin bug

6359 I was either stung or bitten by this insect. Currently is red rash about the size of a toonie all around, no bullseye. Would like to know what it is. Any reason for concern? Thank you. From: Simcoe, Ontario N3y4p7. Canada

Number 6359 This is a nymph of an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae) known as the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus). It’s bite can be quite painful, but is not medically significant. Click here for more detailed information.

nymph of an assassin bug

6301 Indoors, barely 3-5mm in size, looks covered in dust or fine white powder. From Riverview, New Brunswick

Number 6301 This is a young nymph of a an assassin bug known as a masked hunter (Reduvius personatus; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae). This is an introduced species having a wide distribution that often is encountered in dwellings. See Click here for more detailed information.