If you had to select one bug that looks like a sci-fi monster, what would it be? Perhaps you’d choose a hairy spider with many eyes. Or maybe a squiggly larva of some type. The world of pests offers lots of options, but earwigs would have to be strong contenders for the top prize. 

These distinctive creatures certainly look and act the part. They can seem to appear from nowhere, sporting a pair of long antennae on one end and a pair of menacing-looking pincers on the other. It’s easy to imagine a bunch of them chasing a movie hero or attacking a spaceship crew at the climax of a show.

Fortunately that doesn’t happen in real life. Earwigs are pretty docile. Yes, they have a certain “ick” factor, but they are generally harmless to people. They don’t carry harmful diseases and don’t bite humans (although on rare occasions they might pinch.) They are content to eat, sleep, and reproduce, and are constantly roaming to fill their needs. 

Scientists have identified over 2,000 different earwig species worldwide. About 25 species live in North America but only one, the spine-tailed earwig, is native to this continent. Another species, called the European common earwig, arrived in America in 1907 and today are prevalent throughout the southern and southwestern United States.

Earwigs come in a range of sizes, but those in our area typically measure 1/2 to 1 1/4 inches long and 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide. They are perfectly designed for living in cracks and under rocks, mulch, and debris. Each has six legs attached to the forward part of their leathery bodies. They also have two pairs of wings but despite having capacity for flight are not prolific flyers. When not in use their wings stay tucked inside a flap, flush with the top side of their bodies.

Typically, these bugs remain hidden during daylight hours and emerge at night to forage and explore. That’s not to say they’re never active during the day, but they are most comfortable moving around in dimly-lit spaces.

In our time their name sounds quite strange, but it actually makes sense when you know its background. Historians report that “earwig” is a compound word derived from two Old English terms: ēare or “ear”, and wicga or “insect”.  Popular opinion is that the name was inspired by a medieval wives’ tale. During the Middle Ages people thought these bugs crawled into people’s ear canals to lay eggs and feed on brains. While that theory was debunked long ago, the name remains with us.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

Not to humans! Earwigs are shy. They try to stay in the background. Earwigs almost never crawl on people or enter a human ear. They certainly don’t burrow in ear canals or dig for brains. If contact does occur they don’t bite. (However, they may accidentally pinch you, but the effect would be harmless.) 

Earwigs can, however, pose problems to plants, particularly if an infestation develops. They will munch on garden vegetables, flowers, shrubs, and landscaping…especially if the plants aren’t healthy.

Why do Earwigs enter a Structure?

Like other outdoor bugs, earwigs may wander inside. This happens for one or more of the following reasons:

• Moisture – During dry spells, bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and laundry rooms provide humidity which earwigs love.
• Weather changes – Heavy rain, drought, or extreme heat can drive them indoors.
• Food – Earwigs feed on decaying plant material, fungi, and sometimes other insects.
• Shelter – Cracks in foundations, gaps around windows and doors, and cluttered spaces make great hiding spots. They try to hide in dark places inside just as they do outside. 

How do I know if I have an Earwig Problem?

• Frequent sightings inside your house or business
• Damage to landscaping or garden plants (chewed leaves, irregular holes)
• You find clusters of earwigs under outdoor objects (like mulch, stones, or wood)

How can I to Get Rid of Earwigs

1. Eliminate Moisture

• Fix leaky pipes and faucets
• Put a dehumidifier into damp spaces
• Ensure proper drainage around your home

2. Seal Entry Points

• Caulk cracks and gaps in walls and foundations
• Install door sweeps and repair window screens

3. Eliminate Environmental Attractions

• Remove excess mulch, leaf piles, and debris
• Store firewood and lumber away from your house or office
• Trim plants and shrubs, taking care to keep them away from your foundation

4. Use Traps

• Dampen a newspaper or magazine, roll it up and leave it in an infested area overnight (earwigs will crawl inside)
• In the morning, dispose of the trap in a sealed bag
• Shallow containers with oil (like vegetable oil) can also attract and trap them

5. Apply Treatments as Needed

• Insecticides labeled for earwigs can be used around building perimeters
• Natural options like diatomaceous earth are great as they can help reduce populations without introducing chemicals to your soil

Preventing Future Infestations

Earwigs may look intimidating, but they’re manageable with the right approach. Focus on moisture control, sealing entry points, and keeping your yard tidy. 

Maintaining a dry, well-sealed home and minimizing outdoor hiding spots will go a long way in preventing earwigs from coming back. With a little effort, you can keep these pests outside where they belong.

Consistency is the key to controlling any type of pest problem. Regularly inspect foundations and surrounding areas, especially during wet seasons. These surveys will enable you to take early action.

Despite your best efforts you may find your pest issues can’t be resolved without professional help. When this happens, give us a call or text. KC Pest Control is here to help! Together we can create a targeted plan that addresses earwig problems, and trouble you may have with other unwanted creatures. Contact us at (405) 679-8729 to discuss.