Earwigs
Why Are They a Problem?
Earwigs do not pose a serious threat to people or pets. Mostly they’re annoying and unsightly, although some species do emit a foul odour and they can be a nuisance when they migrate indoors. Earwigs can cause damage to cultivated plants. When earwigs migrate indoors, they hide in cracks and crevices around baseboards and other locations. They may also be found in potted plants and cut flowers.
Earwig Biology
There are two theories about the origin of the name “earwig”. The first is from the superstition that earwigs crawl into the ears of sleeping persons and bore into the brain. The second is from the words “ear-wig”, since the extended wings of earwigs appear ear-shaped.
Earwigs vary in size from 1 - 2 cm in length and are brown to black in colour. Species may be winged or wingless and only a few species are good fliers. Although earwigs appear somewhat dangerous due to their forceps, they’re practically harmless to people.
Although earwigs appear somewhat dangerous due to their forceps, they are practically harmless to people.
The forceps or pincers are the earwig’s most distinctive characteristic. The forceps are used for capturing prey and mating. Earwigs are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of food. They will eat live or dead insects as well as live or decaying vegetation. Earwigs can also cause damage to cultivated plants.
How to Prevent Invasions & Infestations
- Remove any mulch, leaf litter, plant debris, stones and boards close to your house to prevent entry.
- Moisture problems in crawl spaces or within the structure should be corrected.
- Sealing cracks and openings around the ground level of the structure may keep earwigs from entering the building.
- Most earwig species are attracted to lights, so sealing cracks and openings near well-lit doors is essential.
Recommended Treatment
After the preventative tips have been followed to stop earwigs from coming into the house, treat problem areas with one of the insect control products listed below. When choosing an aerosol product to control earwigs, be sure to spray around the building foundation and subfloor crawlspaces.