CLOSED: What is this fast moving round bug that looks like bird poo?

Elphaba Rockport, TX(Zone 9a) May 17, 2008

I saw one of these literally running around in the front yard yesterday. Then today, I saw one in the back also walking very fast along the leaves like a lady bug would. That makes me think that it's a predator bug and I should be happy about it. I would like to know for sure though. I can't find it in my bug book, so your help would be appreciated. Roundish, looks like bird doodoo and walks around leaves continuously.

The plant it's on needs all the help it can get, so hopefully this is a beneficial bug.

Post #4964888

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suunto Sinks Grove, WV May 20, 2008

This could be a larva of a predaceous insect called a lacewing (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae/Hemerobiidae). The larvae of some species will cover themselves with bits of debris (sometimes including body parts of previous victims) as camouflage. See http://www.backyardnature.net/pix/trashbug.jpg and http://bugguide.net/node/view/11659/bgpage for examples.

Post #4979391

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Elphaba Rockport, TX(Zone 9a) May 20, 2008

That's great! Thank you! I'm happy to have more lacewings around. I'm having a problem with leafhoppers, so maybe they covered their bodies with them! Too cool and good to know. Thanks again.

Post #4980214

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jojoringer Joey in Conroe, TX(Zone 8b) May 20, 2008

OK I have no idea, but I had to stop in and see a bug that looks like bird poo! Great description!!!

Post #4980227

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