Earwigs are part of the insect order Dermaptera and are generally considered nuisance pests. The decision to eliminate them depends entirely on the context of their presence, specifically their population size and location. Action is usually only required when they cause damage or invade living spaces.
Identifying Earwigs and Dispelling Myths
Earwigs are easily identified by their elongated, reddish-brown bodies, typically measuring about three-quarters of an inch long. Their most distinguishing feature is the pair of pincer-like appendages, known as cerci, located at the end of the abdomen. Males possess more curved pincers, while females exhibit a straighter form. The intimidating appearance of these cerci has led to several persistent misconceptions.
The most widely believed myth is that earwigs crawl into the ears of sleeping people to bore into the brain and lay eggs. This idea is entirely false and likely contributes to the insect’s name, but it lacks scientific basis. Earwigs are shy, nocturnal creatures that avoid human contact. They are not known to spread disease or carry venom. While they can use their cerci defensively to deliver a slight, non-medically significant pinch if handled, they are generally harmless to people and pets.
When Earwigs Become a Problem
In the outdoor environment, earwigs are often beneficial, playing a dual role as scavengers and predators. They help recycle organic debris by feeding on decaying plant matter, contributing to soil health. They are also opportunistic feeders that prey on soft-bodied garden pests, such as aphids and insect larvae. Killing earwigs when populations are moderate may disrupt natural controls in the garden ecosystem.
A problem arises when earwig populations become excessively large or shift their diet to actively feed on live plants. They inflict damage by chewing irregular holes in leaves, petals, and developing fruits. Tender plants like seedlings, lettuce, strawberries, corn silks, and soft ornamentals such as marigolds are vulnerable to their nighttime feeding habits. While damage is often cosmetic on mature plants, heavy feeding can destroy young growth or render soft fruits unmarketable.
Control is also warranted when earwigs migrate indoors, becoming a household nuisance. They are attracted to dark, damp areas and often enter homes in search of shelter and moisture, particularly during hot or dry weather. Inside, they are commonly found in basements, crawl spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms. Although they do not breed indoors, their sudden presence in large numbers justifies taking action to prevent further entry.
Exclusion and Management Strategies
The most effective initial response to an earwig problem is exclusion, preventing them from moving into the structure. This involves sealing all potential entry points, such as small cracks in the foundation and utility openings. Inspecting and repairing weather stripping around doors and windows closes off common access pathways. Reducing moisture is equally important, requiring the fixing of leaky outdoor faucets and ensuring gutters direct water away from the foundation.
Reducing the outdoor population begins with habitat modification, eliminating the damp, dark places where earwigs hide during the day. This includes removing piles of leaf litter, excess mulch, lawn clippings, and wood from around the home’s perimeter. Creating a dry, debris-free strip of ground, such as a rock or gravel barrier adjacent to the foundation, will discourage activity near entry points.
Non-chemical trapping methods provide a simple way to monitor and reduce localized populations without broad-spectrum treatments. Earwigs seek shelter in rolled-up sections of newspaper, short pieces of garden hose, or moist, corrugated cardboard placed overnight. Traps can be collected in the morning and the insects disposed of in soapy water. For persistent, severe infestations, a thin application of diatomaceous earth along the foundation or the targeted use of perimeter insecticides can be considered as a last resort.