Earwig Control

Most people know what Earwigs are, or at least what they look like. They have elongated and flattened bodies. They have four wings, though are rarely wingless, and they have threadlike antennae about half the length of their body. They also have the forceps-like cerci—claws or pinchers on their ends—which are used as an offensive and defensive weapon, sometimes to capture prey. The adults are about ¼”-1” long, and males have longer cerci.

The name “earwig” was derived from an old European superstition that these insects enter people’s ears while they sleep and bore into the brain. They can’t thought they look like they maybe could. There are about 22 species of earwigs just in the United States.

Earwig Lifecycle

Earwigs usually overwinter outdoors as adults, in areas where there is protection for them. They do enter structures to overwinter when they are in one of the four to five nymphal stages, ranging between 40-60 days. They find a way in through small openings like cracks and crevices, and are attracted to light. Nymph earwigs are exactly like adult earwigs but have no wings. Adult females can begin laying eggs immediately after emerging into adulthood. On average, female earwigs lay 50 eggs per batch and each has three to four batches.

Earwigs are nocturnal and hide during the day in shady places, like under stones, legs, or in mulch, as they prefer a moist location. At no stage of life can they withstand long periods of dryness. You may have seen some in your gardens, as they feed on live or dead plants and insects. Sometimes they can be a nuisance because they can be known to damage cultivated plants.

Earwig Treatments

If you have seen these in your garden and are concerned they may enter your home, call Paffy’s Pest Control to see how we can help you with our preventative pest control. 651-459-4654. The best pest control is preventative pest control. We have our Three-Season Home Service plan, which covers pretty much every insect and a couple types of rodents. If you want to be protected year round, or have multiple concerns, this is the most cost-effective way to go. Ask one of our experienced customer service representatives about this package today.

Source: NPCA Field Guide to Structural Pests

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Paffy’s also has one-time treatments for all pests. Some include follow-ups, most include a warranty which includes no charge callbacks. What are you waiting for?