Few home and garden pests can evoke a reaction quite like earwigs. These small and startling insects with pincers can catch you off guard, especially if you accidentally dig one up.
Earwigs are fascinating yet often misunderstood creatures that can be found in many parts of the world, including the midwestern United States. To help you better understand these insects, we’ll answer some of the common questions about their habits and appearance and provide tips on how to manage their presence in your home and garden.
Watch our short earwig video and then read on.
What are Earwigs?
An earwig is a small insect belonging to the order Dermaptera. There are over 2,000 species of earwigs with approximately 22 of those found in the United States. The common earwig is the most prevalent.
Fossil records indicate that earwigs have existed for over 200 million years and date back to the Jurassic period. This ancient lineage places them among some of the oldest insects still in existence today. They are believed to have originated in the tropics and have since spread across various continents.
Earwigs are easily recognizable by their flat, elongated bodies and distinctive pincers, called cerci, which sit at the end of their abdomens. Their coloration varies but is usually dark brown or black. Earwigs possess two pairs of wings, though not all species use them. The forewings are short and leathery, covering the more delicate hind wings that fold underneath. When threatened, some earwig species can unfold their hind wings and fly short distances.
Common Questions About Earwigs
Do Earwigs Really Crawl Into Ears?
No. The myth that earwigs crawl into human ears to lay eggs is just that—a myth. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. While it is theoretically possible for any small insect to enter an ear canal, it is not a common behavior for earwigs. Their name likely refers to their ear-shaped wings.
What Do Earwigs Eat?
Earwigs feed on a range of materials, including decaying organic matter, plant material, and small insects. This diet makes them both a potential pest and a beneficial insect. In gardens, they can help decompose organic matter and control aphids and other small pests. However, they can also damage young plants and seedlings if their population becomes too large.
What Attracts Earwigs?
Earwigs thrive in moist, sheltered environments. Outdoors, they can be found under rocks, mulch, leaf piles, and in garden beds. They are also attracted to light and may be found near outdoor lighting fixtures. Indoors, they may seek out damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, or kitchens, especially if there are cracks and crevices that allow them entry from the outside.
Are Earwigs Dangerous to Humans or Pets?
Earwigs do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases. They use their pincers for defense, capturing prey, and mating. While they might look menacing, they are generally harmless and will rarely use their pincers on a human.
How Can I Prevent Earwigs from Entering My Home?
To prevent earwigs from making their way into your home, follow these simple steps:
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Ensure that doors, windows, and foundations are properly sealed to prevent entry.
- Reduce Moisture: Fix any leaks and use dehumidifiers in damp areas of your home.
- Remove Debris: Clear away leaf piles, mulch, and other organic debris from around the foundation of your home.
- Use Outdoor Lighting Wisely: Earwigs are active at night. Reduce the use of outdoor lighting or use yellow "bug" lights that are less attractive to insects.
How Do I Get Rid of Earwigs?
If you already have an earwig infestation, there are several methods you can use to control them:
- Traps: Set earwig traps using rolled-up newspaper, cardboard tubes, or small containers filled with oil and soy sauce to attract and capture earwigs.
- Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators like birds, toads, and certain insects that feed on earwigs.
- Insecticides: If necessary, use insecticides specifically labeled for earwig control. Be sure to follow all safety instructions on the product label.
- Plunkett’s: Hire an expert who is experienced in earwig pest control who can identify and eliminate the source of the problem.
Earwig Control Solutions
Despite their appearance, earwigs are intriguing insects that are generally harmless and can even be beneficial in certain environments. If you need professional assistance in dealing with an earwig infestation or any other pest problem, our expert team is here to help. Submit your service request today.
