Learn More About Earwigs

Earwigs are the insects that nightmares are made of. Many old wives’ tales have told the stories of these bugs slipping into your ears at night and eating away your brain or laying eggs in your cerebellum. While these tales are untrue, it’s no wonder why so many of us cringe when we see these menacing-looking visitors in our home. Here is what you need to know about earwigs in your home.

What Do Earwigs Look Like?

Earwigs are unmistakable. The two pincers at the ends of their bodies are dead giveaways. The body of an earwig is a little more than half an inch long, and they are a dark brown or reddish color. The earwig has 6 legs that are light brown in color, and they have 2 antennae that extend off the front of their head.

Do Earwigs Infest Structures In East Texas?

Earwigs are not picky about where they live. East Texas provides attractive shelter for earwigs. These social pests prefer to dwell in dark, damp areas together in large numbers. It is not uncommon to find earwigs outside and indoors. Outside, earwigs live in large leaf piles, under bricks and garbage cans, in mulch and tree holes, and they even tuck themselves into the middle of certain flowers and their leaves. When inside, earwigs can be found in basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and in mudrooms. Earwigs will come up from drains and hang out in bathtubs and sinks.

What Do Earwigs Eat?

Earwigs feed on plants and insects. Earwigs also feast on mold, fruit, and leaves. Food sources for earwigs are abundant inside and outside of your home.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

No, earwigs are not dangerous to humans, despite old tales and their threatening looks. An earwig’s pincers on the back of their bodies are used for defense, NOT for biting humans or digging tunnels into the ear canal so they can lay eggs. Earwigs also do not carry harmful bacteria or disease. They just look unsettling.

How Does Innovative Pest Control Get Rid Of Earwigs?

Innovative Pest Control has years of experience in getting rid of and preventing earwigs. Innovative Pest Control teaches homeowners about exclusion techniques, gets rid of earwig instantiations, and treats the home or business to prevent future earwig invasions. To learn more about Innovative Pest Control’s earwig control services through our home pest control plans or to schedule an appointment, give us a call today!

Earwig Prevention Tips

To prevent earwigs, you need to address their habitat. Avoid giving them a place to take shelter by implementing the following tips:

• Remove leaf, mulch and debris piles around your home.
• Seal any cracks, holes, and crevices on the outside of your home.
• Inspect your gutters and downspout to ensure they are pointed away from your home.
• Look for any holes in your home’s screens, and repair or replace them.
• If you have damp areas in your home, use a dehumidifier to dry them out.