Earwig Identification

What are earwigs?

Earwigs are insects that grow to about an inch in length. Their elongated bodies are black, brown, or red and have pincers extending from their back ends. Earwigs do have wings, but flying is no their strong suit, and most don't fly at all or only very short distances. 

These insects are associated with an old wives' tale that makes most people cringe. The story says that earwigs crawl into people's ears and into our brains to lay their eggs. But, you can sleep soundly knowing that this tale is completely untrue. Earwigs lay their eggs in damp soil and have no desire to be in close contact with us as we sleep.

Are earwigs dangerous?

Earwigs are garden pests and aren't particularly harmful to people. Even as garden pests, they don't really cause much damage. Earwigs do have pincers, but their pincers aren't strong enough to cause damage to our skin.

The main concern with large populations of earwigs is that their presence can indicate excess moisture in or around your home. Unfortunately, excess moisture will not just attract harmless earwigs but more dangerous and destructive pests.

Why do I have an earwig problem?

Earwigs have become a problem in your yard because it provides them with the damp, dark living conditions that allow them to thrive. Earwigs are nocturnal scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter, other insects, and plants such as vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. Things like gardens, flowerbeds, mulch, landscaping ties, and other areas of dense vegetation that attracts moisture will also attract earwigs.

Where will I find earwigs?

In Arizona, it is typical for earwigs and other moisture-seeking pests to want to move inside to take advantage of the cool, damp areas our homes often provide to them. When earwigs move into our homes, they do so through spaces they find in the foundation, exterior walls, or around windows. Once inside, the earwigs will move to damp, dark areas.

• Crawl spaces
• Wall voids near plumbing pipes
• Behind kitchen appliances
• In cabinets under sinks
• Cardboard boxes
• Pieces of folded bedding or linens

How do I get rid of earwigs?

Get rid of earwigs with the help of the local professionals at Quell Pest Control. We have a deep understanding of our customer's pest control needs because the East Valley area of Arizona is also our home!

Quell Pest Control is a family-owned business dedicated to treating our customers like we would members of our own family. Trust our dedicated professionals, our eco-friendly pest control solutions, and our industry-leading methods and targeted treatments to rid your Queen Creek property of earwigs and other pests!

Our top priority is to maintain a long-term relationship and help keep your property pest-free. To learn more about our pest control solutions, give us a call today!