What Are Earwigs?
Earwigs are small, elongated insects with a pair of curved pincers on the end of their abdomen. Despite common myths, earwigs do not crawl into ears and are not aggressive. The pincers are primarily used for defense and mating and are rarely used on people.
Earwigs are nocturnal and typically hide during the day.
Where Earwigs Live
Earwigs thrive in cool, dark, and damp environments. Outdoors, they are commonly found:
- Under mulch, leaves, and wood piles
- Beneath stones, landscape timbers, and garden edging
- In moist soil near foundations
- Around decaying organic matter
Because they require moisture to survive, earwig populations tend to increase in shaded or poorly drained areas.
What Attracts Earwigs
Earwigs are drawn to conditions that provide moisture and shelter, including:
- Excess humidity
- Mulch beds and dense ground cover near the home
- Overwatered lawns or garden areas
- Leaf litter and organic debris
- Foundation gaps that trap moisture
Why Earwigs Get Inside Homes
Earwigs do not want to live indoors long-term. They typically enter homes accidentally while searching for moisture, especially during:
- Hot, dry summer weather
- Heavy rain or sudden weather changes
- Extended dry periods that reduce outdoor moisture
They are most often found in bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens.
Are Earwigs Dangerous?
No. Earwigs do not bite, sting, transmit disease, or damage homes. While their pincers can look intimidating, they are harmless and rarely used.
Earwigs are considered a nuisance pest rather than a dangerous one.
How to Reduce Earwig Activity Around Your Home
Preventing earwigs focuses on reducing moisture and exterior hiding areas:
- Reduce excessive mulch buildup around the foundation and avoid piling mulch directly against the home, as this can trap moisture and create ideal conditions for earwigs
- Avoid overwatering near the foundation
- Remove leaf piles and organic debris
- Seal cracks, gaps, and utility penetrations
- Use dehumidifiers in damp basements
Professional Earwig Control
Earwig activity is typically a symptom of moisture or exterior pest pressure rather than a standalone infestation. Professional treatment focuses on:
- Exterior inspection and habitat reduction
- Targeted foundation treatments
- Identifying moisture issues that may attract pests
Addressing these conditions helps reduce earwigs and other moisture-loving pests before they become an ongoing issue.
