Earwigs are common insects found in many households and outdoor environments. These reddish-brown creatures are recognizable by their distinctive pincer-like appendages, known as cerci, at the end of their abdomens. While their appearance might seem intimidating, earwigs are largely harmless to humans and are often simply a nuisance indoors. They measure between 1/4 inch and 1 inch in length.
The Truth About Earwig Climbing
Earwigs can climb walls and other vertical surfaces. They frequently seek indoor environments, seeking moisture and shelter, especially when outdoor conditions are unfavorable. Once inside, they may climb walls or ceilings, often preferring damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. While they readily ascend rough or textured surfaces like brick, wood, or plaster, very smooth materials such as polished metal or glass present a significant challenge.
How Earwigs Navigate Vertical Surfaces
Earwigs climb using specific adaptations of their legs and feet. Each of their six legs ends with a pair of pretarsal claws, sharp and effective for gripping uneven or rough textures. Beyond these claws, earwigs also possess specialized adhesive pads, called setae, on their tarsi or foot segments. These setae consist of fine hairs that create friction and adhesion, allowing the insect to maintain a grip even on smoother surfaces.
These structures enable earwigs to move efficiently across various vertical substrates. They move by scuttling or running quickly. Their preference for tight, enclosed spaces, a behavior known as thigmotaxis, also contributes to their presence in cracks and crevices on walls. This combination of physical features and behavioral tendencies allows them to scale vertical planes.
Managing Earwigs on Walls
Controlling earwigs on walls involves addressing conditions that attract them indoors and sealing entry points. Earwigs are highly attracted to moisture, so reducing humidity inside the home is a key step. Methods include fixing leaky faucets or pipes, ensuring proper drainage around the foundation, and using dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements.
Preventing entry also involves sealing cracks and crevices in the home’s exterior, including the foundation, walls, and around windows and doors. Outdoor debris such as leaf litter, woodpiles, and excessive mulch near the house should be removed, as they provide ideal hiding and breeding spots. Trimming back vegetation that touches the house can eliminate pathways for earwigs to access walls. For those already inside, simple methods like vacuuming, using sticky traps, or applying diatomaceous earth or boric acid in infested areas can manage their presence.