Earwigs

How do I identify Earwigs?
Color: Usually dark brown in color with a pair of pinchers on the back end.
Size: About 1/4" – 1" in length. Earwigs get their name from an old European belief that they would crawl into people's ears at night. This belief is untrue and turned out to simply be a superstition.

Have Earwigs infested your home?
Earwigs are fast moving insects that are active at night. They are attracted to light, require moisture and typically travel in groups. During daylight hours they like to hide under debris, in the soil or in mulch beds. Earwigs often give off a foul odor when crushed, however, this odor is not recognizable by all.

Will Earwigs bite?
Earwigs are considered harmless to people. Larger earwigs will use their pincers to bite, however, there is no venom present. The bite may be painful nonetheless.

Will Earwigs damage my home or structure?
Earwigs cause no damage to the home.

Recommendations for control:

Earwigs often come into the home in potted plants. Be sure to inspect plants before bringing them into the home. They often are transported inside objects and go unnoticed until they are brought into the home. Most earwig infestations can simply be vacuumed or swept into a dustpan and taken outdoors.

If, however, you have an ongoing earwig infestation it is recommended that you contact a pest management professional to help with control.