Subject: Kissing bug?
Location: Idaho falls, Idaho
July 10, 2017 9:00 pm
Sure would like to know if my kiddos are at risk.
Signature: Concerned Mama
Dear Concerned Mama,
This is an adult Masked Hunter, and it is classified with Kissing Bugs in the Assassin Bug family. According to BugGuide: “Can inflict a painful bite but does not feed on blood, and does not transmit diseases. Introduced from Europe.” You may have already encountered Masked Hunter nymphs in your home. Their sticky exoskeleton attracts dust and debris which effectively camouflages them in their environment.