Lacewings (Chrysoperla carnea)

What are lacewings?

Lacewings, scientifically known as Chrysoperla carnea, are small, green bugs with wings that appear almost transparent. These soft-bodied insects are known for their delicate, lace-like wings and their appetite for pests like aphids. They are often mistaken for other flying insects, but their unique veined wings set them apart. Lacewings are most commonly found in gardens, fields, and wooded areas, where they help control pest populations.

While lacewings play an essential role in natural pest control, they can sometimes become a nuisance when they gather in large numbers around homes.

The life cycle of lacewings

Lacewings go through four main life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each stage plays a critical role in their survival and impact on the environment. 

Lacewing eggs

Female lacewings lay their eggs on leaves or plant stems, often near aphid colonies. Green lacewing eggs are tiny, oval-shaped, and attached to thin stalks to protect them from predators. Their eggs are laid in batches of 120 to 150 and can hatch in eight hours or up to three days.

Green lacewing larvae

Also called "aphid lions," green lacewing larvae are fierce predators that feed on aphids, whiteflies, and other small pests. They have sharp mandibles that allow them to grasp and consume their prey. The larvae take three to 60 days to mature.

Pupa stage

After feeding for a few weeks, the lacewing larvae spin a cocoon and enter the pupal stage - this can take between three to 28 days, where they transform into adults.

Adult lacewings

Fully developed common green lacewings emerge with delicate wings and start the cycle again. Adult lacewings primarily feed on nectar and honeydew, while their larvae handle pest control.

Seasonal behaviors of lacewings

Lacewings behave differently depending on the season. In spring and summer, lacewings are most active, feeding on pests and laying eggs. During fall, as temperatures drop, lacewings seek shelter in cracks, crevices, and homes. In winter, some species overwinter as adults, while others remain in pupal form until spring.

Habitat and diet of lacewings

Lacewings are helpful insects found in many environments, playing a key role in controlling pests through their diet.

Where do lacewings live?

Lacewings are found in a variety of environments, including gardens and greenhouses, fields and meadows, wooded areas, shrubs and bushes, and near outdoor lights at night. While lacewings prefer outdoor habitats, they may enter homes in search of warmth during colder months.

What do lacewings eat?

Lacewings are essential for natural pest control. Their diet includes aphids, which are their primary food source, especially for lacewing larvae. They also consume scale insects, mealybugs, whiteflies, thrips, mites, and caterpillar eggs. Additionally, adult lacewings feed on nectar and honeydew, a sugary substance produced by aphids.

Habits and behavior of lacewings

Lacewings are mostly nocturnal and are often drawn to lights at night. While their larvae are aggressive predators, adult lacewings are harmless and feed on nectar and pollen. Many gardeners intentionally introduce common lacewings to control pest populations naturally.

Managing and preventing lacewing infestations

While lacewings are beneficial, they can become a nuisance when they gather around homes. If you're dealing with an infestation, here’s what to look for and how to manage it.

Signs of an infestation

You may notice a lacewing infestation if you see many lacewing bugs near outdoor lights. Look for lacewing fly eggs on houseplants or garden plants. You might also spot larvae on leaves or close to aphid colonies.

How to get rid of lacewings?

If lacewings are getting into your home, there are a few ways to keep them out. Start by closing any small gaps around doors, windows, and vents. This stops them from sneaking inside. Lacewings are attracted to bright lights at night, so try using dimmer or yellow lights outside to keep them away. Putting up insect screens on windows and vents can also help.

If you already have lacewings indoors, you can gently vacuum them up and release them outside. In your garden, removing aphids and other small insects can make your yard less inviting for lacewings. 

If lacewings become a big problem, our fly control experts can help.

Frequently asked questions

Other types of flies 

Learn more about other common flies found in the US, including filter flies, cluster flies, crane flies, and whiteflies.