Earwig

Description:

Earwigs range in color from reddish brown to black. They are equipped with a set of pincers on the back of their abdomen. They can be up to 1 inch in length.

Behavior:

Earwigs are nocturnal. They hide in cracks in damp areas during day time hours. They live under logs and rocks and in mulch in gardens. Earwigs eat insects and plant matter. When inside a building, earwigs are commonly found in dark damp places.

Control:

Earwig In Garden

To prevent an earwig infestation landscape timbers, logs, decorative stones, and firewood piles should be moved away from the foundation. Organic materials, leaves, and mulch should also be cleared away from the structure. Trees and shrubs that create shady moist areas should be trimmed back. A pest control maintenance program is also recommended. These applications target areas earwigs hide and feed.

Fun Fact:

The old wives tale about earwigs crawling into the ears of people while they sleep is not true.