Earwig

Life Cycle

Color: Usually brown
Size: Often about ½–¾ inch; varies
Key Markings: Pincerlike appendages at rear
Activity: Mostly active at night
Common Areas: Damp mulch and sheltered crevices

Description

Order Dermaptera

Earwigs shelter in damp, dark places and emerge to feed. Depending on species, they scavenge, consume plant material, or prey on small organisms. Eggs hatch into nymphs that resemble smaller adults. The rear pincers are their most recognizable feature.

What Attracts Them?

Damp organic debris
Protected cracks
Plant material and small prey

How Do They Get Inside?

Gaps under doors
Cracks around foundations
Outdoor items brought inside

Signs of an Infestation

Pincer-tailed insects near entries

Earwigs beneath damp objects

Night activity around shelter

Repeated visitors after weather changes

How Serious or Harmful Are They?

Earwigs are usually accidental indoor visitors. They may pinch if handled, but they do not establish the frightening ear-related behavior suggested by their name.

Treatment / How to Get Rid of Them

What You Can Do

Reduce wet debris near walls
Keep stored materials off the ground
Repair door sweeps and screens
Remove stray insects and inspect exterior shelter

How Pest Guys Helps

The A-C-T Process: Assess. Communicate. Treat.

Assess — We inspect your property, identify pests and activity, locate nesting and hiding areas, and find contributing conditions.

Communicate — We explain our findings, discuss the recommended plan, answer your questions, and confirm understanding and agreement.

Treat — We put the agreed plan into action, perform the initial treatment, provide ongoing service, and monitor results to adjust as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for first?

Pincerlike appendages at rear. Pincer-tailed insects near entries. A clear photograph and the location of activity can help with identification.

What conditions should I check?

Start with damp organic debris. Reduce wet debris near walls.

Does seeing one mean there is an infestation?

A single sighting does not establish the extent of a problem. Repeated activity, developing young, nests, or other evidence help us determine what is happening.

How does Pest Guys decide what to do?

We use A-C-T: Assess, Communicate, Treat. The pest, its location, and the conditions at your home guide the recommendation. We explain the plan and any preparation needed before service.