Biting gold/white insect - Ask Extension
What is this insect? They have bitten me several times while sitting on my patio. The bites cause swelling at the site and round, purple-ish bruising ...
Knowledgebase
Biting gold/white insect #878954
Asked July 26, 2024, 5:53 PM EDT
What is this insect? They have bitten me several times while sitting on my patio. The bites cause swelling at the site and round, purple-ish bruising with significant itching. The photos are from the edge of the cushion I was sitting on when bitten. Thanks!
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hello,
Sorry you are getting harassed by this insect! This looks like a lacewing larvae who got a little lost: https://extension.umn.edu/beneficial-insects/lacewing
They don't typically bite humans and they don't spread disease. They like to eat pest insects on plants. If you flick the wayward ones off, you should be good, as they don't infest homes or furniture.
Marissa Schuh
Integrated Pest Management Extension Educator
Sorry you are getting harassed by this insect! This looks like a lacewing larvae who got a little lost: https://extension.umn.edu/beneficial-insects/lacewing
They don't typically bite humans and they don't spread disease. They like to eat pest insects on plants. If you flick the wayward ones off, you should be good, as they don't infest homes or furniture.
Marissa Schuh
Integrated Pest Management Extension Educator
