Earwigs

What Do Earwigs Look Like?

Earwigs are a species of insect that are quite easy to identify, mostly due to their distinct cerci. Cerci are pincher-like appendages that extend off of the earwig's backend. Typically the males' cerci are curved and the females' are straight. Earwigs have long, narrow bodies and are usually reddish-brown or dark brown in color.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

The appearance of the earwig and stories associated with these insects make them seem much more dangerous than they actually are. In fact, earwigs aren’t really a danger at all and are simply considered nuisance pests. Though their pinchers look quite intimidating, they are mainly used to defend themselves against each other and aren’t strong enough to cause any real pain for a person. Another reason that people are wary of earwigs is the myth they are associated with that says they are known to crawl into the ears of sleeping individuals to burrow into their brains and lay their eggs. However, the good news is that this myth is just that—a myth—and is completely untrue!

Where Am I Likely To Find Earwigs?

Earwigs are nocturnal insects and enjoy living outside in damp, dark areas, feeding on other insects, and decaying plant materials. Typical areas that these pests can be found include underneath rocks, mulch, landscaping ties, and piles of grass or leaves. They may also hideout underneath lawn furniture, packages, newspapers, or potted plants that have been left outdoors. Though earwigs enjoy living outside, they may find their way into homes and other buildings when the outside becomes too hot or dry for them to live comfortably. Inside homes, they are often found living in places that mimic their outdoor environment such as basements, crawl spaces, underneath sinks, laundry rooms, or bathrooms. Earwigs also can be accidentally introduced into homes after being brought inside on or inside items that have spent time outside.

Does Modern Offer Earwig Control?

At Modern Pest Control, we provide pest control solutions for homes and businesses that include treatment for earwigs. When you contact our company to solve your earwig problem, we will start with a thorough inspection to determine the areas where earwigs are living on your property; our professionals will then design a layout customized for your property to help control the earwig populations. Contact Modern Pest Control today for more information about the pest control solutions we provide in the Greater Houston area.

How Can I Prevent Earwig Infestations?

Preventing earwig infestations on your property can be quite a difficult task. Listed below are a few tips on how to discourage earwigs from choosing your property to invade and to keep them from migrating into your home:

• Seal gaps found in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
• Caulk gaps found around exterior windows and doors, especially basement doors.
• Make sure that door sweeps are installed on all exterior doors.
• Seal any openings found around pipes, wires, and other utilities entering into your house.
• Place a stone or rock barrier between your home’s foundation and any mulch or soil.
• Trim back any overgrown vegetation away from your home to allow the soil to dry out.
• Use dehumidifiers in damp basements and make sure that any crawl spaces are properly ventilated.