Earwigs

Description

Earwigs got their name from the myth that they crawl into sleeping people’s ears and tunnel into their brains. The long cerci, or clippers, on their backsides easily identify an earwig.

Pest Facts

Color
Dark brown

Legs
Six

Shape
Long, narrow

Size
1 inch

Antennae
Yes

Flying
No

Region
All 50 states

Habits

Earwigs hide during the day and feed on leaves, flowers, fruits, mold and insects at night.

Habitat

These insects live together outdoors in large numbers. They can be found under piles of lawn debris or mulch, or in tree holes. They gain entry to a structure through exterior cracks.

Threats

Contrary to folklore, earwigs do not crawl into ears and eat people’s brains at night. They do not spread diseases, but their menacing appearance can be alarming to a homeowner.

Prevention

Remove harborage sites such as leaf piles, mulch piles or other vegetation. Seal cracks and crevices well to prevent structural entry.

All information contained within is sourced directly from the National Pest Management Association.