Earwigs

What Is An Earwig?

Earwigs are small insects that belong to the Dermaptera order. These insects have smooth blogs with two horny abdominal appendages referred to as cerci, which are similar to pincers. They tend to be larger in male earwigs than female earwigs. The length of the cerci may range up to 1/3 of the length of the insect’s bodies. Some earwigs have wings, but others do not. Even winged earwigs rarely fly. Most earwigs have bodies that are dark brown or red. Most are small, but there are some species that can grow very large.

Saint Helena Giant Earwigs grow up to 3 inches. Today, there are 900 known species of Dermaptera with most being found in temperate climates. There is a myth that earwigs can climb into a human’s ear, burrow in their brains, and lay eggs. While it is only a myth, it can create other problems.

Why Do I Have Earwigs In My Home?

When the hot, dry weather arrives, earwigs will attempt to move inside. They want to stay in warm, dark, damp, temperate climates. Earwigs will do what they must to find a way into your home. If they can find an entry point, they’ll be able to find several viable locations. Since earwigs are nocturnal, they’ll hide during the day and prowl during the night.

Earwigs are often found in basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. When it gets dark, they’ll come out and try to feed on plants and arthropods. If you’re dealing with another pest infestation, your chance of experiencing an earwig infestation will be much higher.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

While earwigs are a nuisance, they’re not dangerous. Their cerci can be used to pinch humans, but they won’t be able to break your skin. Furthermore, you won’t need to worry about earwigs spreading venom. Even if they pinch your skin, they’re not going to pose any risks. They can destroy your household plants. If you have blossomed, you’ll need to keep them away from earwigs.

Getting Rid Of Earwigs

To remove earwigs from your home, it is pertinent to reduce the earwig population around your property. Once you’ve done that, you can prevent earwigs from entering your home. You’ll also want to prevent earwigs from approaching your home by reducing the amount of light emitting from your windows and doors. Furthermore, you should change your lights to sodium vapor yellow lights, because they’re less attractive to earwigs and other insects.

How Quickly Can You Begin?

Contact us to schedule an appointment right away. We can likely reach your home in 24 to 48 hours.

Is Your Earwig Treatment Safe?

Our company uses natural methods to eliminate earwigs when possible. However, there are situations when conventional products are needed. Don’t worry. Our skilled, experienced exterminator will work diligently to keep you protected every step of the way. Our exterminators are trained to follow strict protocols to keep the client safe every step of the way. We use EPA-registered products to keep our clients safe.

Can I Prevent Future Earwig Infestations?

Preventing an earwig infestation can be very difficult. However, there are some ways to prevent them from entering your home. For instance, you can start by changing your lights, and try blocking light coming from your doors and windows. If you do this, you can prevent earwigs from approaching your home. Next, you’ll want to seal off all potential entry points. Make sure that the bugs cannot enter your home through small cracks and crevices.

Finally, you should know that infestations are bound to happen. If you suspect your home is being overrun by earwigs, it is pertinent to contact us. We’ll take care of the problem for you.

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