Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects common in various environments. They typically measure 5 to 16 millimeters in length. Often dark red-brown with pale yellow wings and legs, they primarily move by running despite having wings. Earwigs are mostly active at night, seeking shelter in dark, moist crevices during the day.
The Truth About Earwig Bites
Despite their intimidating appearance, earwigs do not bite humans, especially not during sleep. The pincer-like structures on their abdomen are called cerci, not biting mouthparts. These cerci are primarily used for defense against other insects, capturing small prey like aphids, or during mating rituals.
While an earwig’s pincers can grasp a finger if the insect feels threatened or agitated, the resulting pinch is usually minor and rarely breaks the skin. The sensation is more a slight discomfort than a significant injury. Earwigs are not venomous and do not transmit diseases to humans or other animals. The notion of them crawling into ears and burrowing into the brain is a persistent myth, with no scientific basis.
Why Earwigs Enter Homes
Earwigs are drawn indoors primarily in search of moisture, food, or shelter. They thrive in damp, humid environments, making areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens especially attractive. Leaky pipes, condensation, or poor ventilation can create the moist conditions earwigs seek.
Earwigs are omnivorous, feeding on decaying organic matter, plants, and other small insects. Indoors, they may scavenge on crumbs or spilled food. They also seek refuge from extreme outdoor weather. They can enter homes through small cracks, gaps around windows or doors, vents, and drainpipes.
Managing Their Presence
To manage earwig presence in and around your home, focus on reducing moisture and sealing potential entry points. Address any leaky pipes, faucets, or irrigation systems, and ensure proper drainage away from the foundation. Using dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements or crawl spaces can significantly reduce humidity levels, making these spaces less appealing to earwigs.
Sealing cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and the foundation with caulk or weatherstripping can prevent earwigs from entering. Outdoors, remove debris such as leaf piles, excess mulch, and stored wood from close to the house, as these provide ideal hiding spots. If individual earwigs are found indoors, they can be vacuumed up or trapped using simple methods like rolled-up damp newspapers or oil traps. Natural repellents, such as essential oils or soap and water solutions, can also be used to deter them.