Earwig Identification & Prevention

What are earwigs?

An earwig is a small insect with an impressive reputation. Many myths surround earwigs stating these insects will burrow into human ears and lay eggs there or eat their way through to the brain. These myths, while gross and frightening to think about, are far from the truth. Earwigs are mostly nuisance pests and will not invade your ears while you sleep or at any other time.

Earwigs can be recognized by their dark brown to black coloration, pincer-like appendages, elongated bodies, and antennae.

An earwig infestation is problematic for your property and an unpleasant sight, professional pest control in Plymouth is essential to eradicate these pests.

Are earwigs dangerous?

Earwigs are not particularly dangerous insects to host around your property, but they can be a major nuisance. An earwig bite cannot transmit any type of bacteria, venom, or illness, but the bite site may occasionally become itchy, especially if many bites are received. That said, an earwig is unlikely to bite or pinch a human unless the person is directly handling the earwig or threatening it; they are more afraid of us than we are of them in most cases.

Why do I have an earwig problem?

Earwigs are mainly attracted to moisture, so if you find an earwig problem around your property, you likely have lots of excess moisture attracting these pests. Evaluate your property for overgrown areas with lots of organic debris that earwigs might feed on, pools of water, and secluded hiding spots; getting rid of or removing access to these areas is a great earwig repellent.

Where will I find earwigs?

Indoors, earwigs are often near areas that provide easy hiding spots and lots of moisture. Kitchens, bathrooms, sinks, basements, and crawl spaces that are humid or areas with other sources of moisture are all prime earwig hiding spots. Outdoors, you'll find earwigs around moist areas, standing water, and piles of humid, damp organic debris.

How do I get rid of earwigs?

The best way to get rid of earwigs is to contact Combat Pest Control for expert removal services. Our team will help identify the main sources of your earwig problem and provide you with solutions tailored to your property's specific earwig removal needs. Reach out today to request a free quote and learn about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.

How can I prevent earwigs in the future?

Following our expert tips below can help prevent earwig problems in the future and ensure that these pests don't continually invade your property.

Fill in cracks and crevices around your property's windows, doors, and foundation to keep earwigs outside and away from interior hiding spots like kitchens and bathrooms.
Utilize door sweeps, weatherstripping, and window and door screens to fully earwig-proof interior areas.
Address moisture issues and leaks around your property and make sure that all interior areas have adequate ventilation to stop humidity or excess water from attracting earwigs.
Clear any long grass, standing water, and piles of damp organic debris on your property where earwigs love to hide.
Clear gutters and drainage areas to stop moisture from compounding and ensure standing water or debris doesn't pile up in these areas.

Reach out to Combat Pest Control for more earwig prevention tips or assistance removing infestations of this pest from your property.

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