Earwigs
Earwigs are nocturnal insects with pincers that hide in mulch and sometimes wander indoors.
Background & Behavior
(Dermaptera) Easily recognized by their pincers, earwigs are nocturnal scavengers that feed on plants, insects, and decaying matter. Despite old myths, they don’t crawl into ears. Indoors, they appear in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms. Though harmless to humans, they can damage seedlings and garden plants outdoors.
DIY Approaches
- Rake mulch and leaf litter away from the foundation to create a dry buffer.
- Set out rolled newspaper traps overnight and discard them in the morning.
- Fix leaky outdoor faucets that create damp harborage zones.
- Install downspout extenders to move water away from the house.
- Seal gaps under exterior doors with sturdy sweeps.
Professional Services
- Arrange for perimeter insecticide treatments targeting moist hiding spots.
- Request crawl space ventilation improvements from licensed contractors.
- Have landscape professionals adjust irrigation schedules to reduce dampness.
- Schedule quarterly pest monitoring around patios and entryways.
- Engage pest pros for granular bait applications in ornamental beds.
Photo Gallery
