Predatory Bugs : Damsel bugs
categories: Natural Enemies Predatory Bugs
last review date: 2025-10-14 09:06
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
Damsel bugs are mostly yellowish, gray or dull brown, slender insects up to ½ inch long with an elongated head and long antennae. The front legs are enlarged for grasping prey. Nymphs look like small adults but are wingless.
Adult damsel bugs overwinter in ground cover, debris, and other protected sites. They emerge from hibernation in April or May and begin laying eggs soon after. Numerous overlapping generations occur during the season.
Both adults and nymphs feed on many soft-bodied insects and mites including aphids, leafhoppers, small caterpillars, thrips, and spider mites.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Mites, aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, caterpillars, mealybugs, beetles, scale insects, insect eggs
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.