Earwigs: Friend or Foe?

They are most active at night and prefer moist, dark environments, such as decaying woodpiles, leaf litter, and mulch. They are a reddish-brown color with elongated bodies and prominent pincers on their rear ends.

So, what’s the deal with earwigs? Can they really burrow in your ear and lay eggs?! NO! This is a common misconception. Earwigs are actually not harmful to humans! They do have pinchers, but they are only used when the earwig feels threatened, and even then they are still not harmful to humans. Earwigs actually have some benefits (as well as drawbacks – but don’t all things?).

Benefits & Drawbacks

Earwigs are particularly good outside, specifically in the garden. They are omnivores that feed on decaying plant material and other insects, including garden pests like aphids and mites.

• Garden Guardians: Earwigs are omnivores, feasting on a variety of organic matter like decaying plant debris and other insects. This includes some common garden pests like aphids, mites, and insect eggs, making them potential allies in your fight for a thriving garden.

• Plant Nibblers: While they might help control some pests, in large numbers, earwigs can develop a taste for your prized plants. They’ll target young foliage, flowers, and even fruits, causing damage that can be frustrating for any gardener.

• Pinching Annoyance: The fearsome-looking pincers are primarily used for defense and grabbing prey. While they can’t inflict a painful bite on humans, the pinch itself can be a nuisance.

• Unwanted Houseguests: Although not known for infestations, earwigs occasionally find their way indoors, particularly during dry periods, seeking moisture and shelter. While harmless, their presence can be unsettling.

Keeping Your Garden Safe

Fortunately, there are several effective ways to manage earwig populations in your garden and prevent them from becoming a major problem:

• Welcome the Predators: Encourage natural predators like birds, toads, and spiders to take up residence in your garden. These creatures view earwigs as a tasty snack, helping to keep their numbers in check.

• Deny Them Sanctuary: Eliminate damp hiding places that earwigs find attractive. Remove leaf litter, avoid using excessive mulch near your foundation, and keep debris piles under control.

• The Trapping Game: Set up simple traps to capture earwigs. Here are a few options:

• Newspaper Paradise: Roll-up damp newspapers and leave them in your garden beds. Earwigs will seek refuge within the paper, making them easy to collect and dispose of in the morning (drowning them in soapy water is a humane solution).

• Hose Havens: Cut short sections of hosepipe and position them around your plants. Earwigs will crawl inside seeking shelter, and you can collect them periodically.

• Soy Sauce Surprise: Fill shallow containers with a mixture of equal parts soy sauce and vegetable oil. The soy sauce attracts earwigs, while the oil traps them. Remember to replace the mixture regularly. This is also a great resource to trap them inside your home as well! 

• The Diatomaceous Earth Dilemma: Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural powder that can dehydrate and kill earwigs. However, use caution, as DE can also harm beneficial insects. Apply it sparingly and only in dry conditions, avoiding areas frequented by pollinators like bees and butterflies.

• Insecticide Intervention: If all else fails, consider using organic, home garden-safe insecticides as a last resort. Always follow the instructions on the label carefully and only apply when necessary.

Evicting Unwelcome Guests

While earwigs aren’t known for intentionally invading homes, they might occasionally find their way inside. Here’s how to prevent their entry and remove them:

• Seal the Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. Seal these openings with caulk to deter earwigs and other unwanted visitors.

• The Vacuum Method: If you find earwigs indoors, the simplest solution is to vacuum them up. Dispose of the vacuum bag contents outdoors to ensure they don’t re-enter your home.

• Sticky Trap Strategy: While not the most aesthetically pleasing option, commercially available sticky traps can be placed in strategic locations to capture earwigs that manage to sneak inside.

So, there you have it! Earwigs: not quite the ear-invading monsters they’re cracked up to be. But an unwanted infestation of any pest (friend or foe) is no fun. If you’re struggling with earwigs or any other pests, remember you don’t have to go it alone. Professional pest control services can help you achieve a pest-free environment. EcoPro Termite & Pest is here to help you feel comfortable both inside and outside of your home all year round! Give us a call to see how we can help with your pest control needs.
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