The first question we would like to answer about earwigs is: “What are earwigs?” Well, earwigs are those creepy looking elongated insects that like to hang out in moist areas of a home. They are beetle-like, fast-moving creatures which are about 1/2 to 1 inch in length and dark brown in color. They have 2 antennae, 6 legs, 3 body parts and, at the end of their abdomens, a set of formidable looking pincers. They also have a set of membranous wings that are folded underneath a pair of forewings.
The second glaring question many people ask about earwigs is, “Do they really crawl into people’s ears and lay eggs?” The answer to this question is a resounding, no. Earwigs do not do this. Neither do they burrow into people’s brains, become attached, and eventually drive their host to madness and/or death. While it IS possible for an earwig to crawl into a person’s ear, and, doubtless, this has happened from time to time, they are otherwise harmless to humans.
Another common earwig question that we hear is, “Can earwigs fly?” Again, the answer to this one is no. Earwigs can’t fly, any more than pigs can. But they are capable of crawling anywhere they need to go and, if they get into your garden, they can cause a lot of damage. And some earwigs, when crushed, will give off a noxious odor.
“Do earwigs bite?” is a concern for most folks who see these disturbing little bugs crawling around inside their home. The answer to this one is yes AND no. Earwigs can bite, but they do not bite humans. They can, however, give a pinch. And while these pinches may be startling and momentarily painful, they usually do not break the skin and are generally not serious.
Another one we hear a lot is, “Why are there earwigs in my home?” Well, if you are seeing these insects, they likely have come in through tiny gaps or cracks in your foundation or walls. And, since these are moisture pests, there is a good chance that there are moisture issues surrounding your home which are drawing them in close. To keep more earwigs from entering, it would be wise to repair sources of moisture such as leaky spigots and broken or obstructed gutters which may be causing wood rot on your home. Water damage such as this will not only draw in earwigs, but other moisture pests as well. And water-softened wood is also a target for wood-chewing rodents.
Is there someone who can help get rid of earwigs and keep them out? The answer to this one is a resounding, yes! Our pest experts here at Adam’s Pest Control have no problem ridding homes of these creepy insects, and any other insect that may be plaguing you. Our technicians are QualityPro Certified, so you know you can trust them. Reach out to Adam’s today for prompt, professional assistance and a free estimate. Life is simply better without earwigs in your home.
