The common name “pincher bug” refers to the earwig, an insect whose intimidating appearance often causes undue concern. Earwigs possess a pair of prominent pincer-like appendages at their rear. While they can certainly pinch, the resulting sensation is generally negligible, feeling more like a minor, sharp nip. They are not venomous, do not transmit disease, and pose virtually no health risk to humans.
What Exactly Are Pincher Bugs?
The insect commonly called a pincher bug is a member of the insect order Dermaptera, known scientifically as earwigs. They are typically dark reddish-brown and slender, measuring between half an inch to one inch long. A defining characteristic is the pair of hardened, forceps-like structures, called cerci, that extend from the end of their abdomen. These insects are primarily nocturnal, preferring to hide during the day in dark, damp environments, such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and mulch, as they require moisture to survive.
Do Earwigs Actually Pinch and Why?
Earwigs use their pincer-like cerci for several important functions. The cerci are primarily employed for defense against predators, but they also assist in capturing small prey and play a role in mating rituals. When threatened or handled, an earwig will typically raise its abdomen and point the cerci forward in a defensive posture. The act of pinching a person is almost always a defensive reaction that occurs when the insect is accidentally squeezed or trapped.
Pain Level, Health Risks, and First Aid
If an earwig does manage to pinch your skin, the pain is generally fleeting and minimal, often compared to the feeling of a strong snap. The appendages are not designed to pierce human skin effectively, and it is rare for a pinch to break the skin. Earwigs are not venomous, so no toxic substance is injected. If the skin is broken, the primary health concern is the potential for minor infection from soil-dwelling bacteria. The recommended first aid is straightforward: immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and warm water. Applying a topical antiseptic or antibiotic cream can provide extra protection against infection.
Keeping Earwigs Out of Your Home
Preventing earwigs from entering a home focuses on eliminating the dark, damp conditions they seek out. Earwigs are strongly attracted to moisture, so fixing leaky pipes, ensuring proper drainage away from the foundation, and using a dehumidifier in damp basements are effective steps. Reducing harborage sites around the home’s perimeter is another practical measure. This involves moving materials like mulch, firewood, and dense leaf litter at least a foot away from the foundation. Sealing potential entry points, such as cracks in the foundation or gaps around windows and doors, removes the pathways they use to seek indoor shelter.