Despite the common myth that earwigs crawl into people’s ears, there’s no truth to this unsettling tale. The name, which translates to "ear creature," may sound ominous, but earwigs are far less threatening than legend suggests. The European earwig, introduced to North America in the early 1900s, is the species most found throughout Canada and the United States.
Understanding the European Earwig
European earwigs are easily recognized by their reddish-brown, flattened bodies and the prominent cerci, or pincers, on their abdomen. These pincers are strong and serve as a key distinguishing feature. Male earwigs have curved, widely spaced cerci, while females have straighter, more slender ones.
These nocturnal insects thrive in dark, damp environments. During the day, they often hide in moist potted plants, under doormats, beneath bricks, or in other shady spots on your property.
Do Earwigs Pose a Threat?
While earwigs are notorious for invading homes—especially basements, bathrooms, and attics—they do not pose serious health risks. Their unsettling appearance may make them seem dangerous, but earwigs are more of a nuisance than a genuine threat.
Their presence can still be bothersome, particularly if they invade in large numbers or leave behind the strong odor they can secrete from their abdomen when disturbed.
How to Prevent and Manage Earwigs
Practicing good home pest control is key to keeping earwigs at bay. These pests feed on a wide range of materials, including healthy plants, decaying vegetation, and other organic matter. To reduce their attraction to your home:
Summer is peak season for earwigs to invade homes, so taking proactive measures during this time is particularly important.
If earwigs do find their way indoors, they often enter in large numbers. Should this happen and the infestation becomes overwhelming, it’s best to seek professional pest control assistance to handle the situation effectively.
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