Masked Hunter (Reduvius personatus) on May 27, 2021

Originally reported as Assassin Bugs (family Reduviidae)

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

Looks like a Triatoma recurva or a Triatoma protracta. It stung or pinched a family member. It left a red dot the size of a pin prick with a slightly swollen white circle around it. 30 min. later after treating it with a baking soda paste, the mark is barely noticeable.

Commentary

Hi Kendra,
Apologies for the delayed response. This assassin bug, Reduvius personatus, is known to bite but does not feed on blood nor transmit diseases like kissing bugs do. Hope that helps!

Corwin Parker
June 11, 2024, 4 a.m.