ABOUT EARWIGS

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The name comes from an old European superstition that these insects enter the ears of sleeping people and bore into the brain. The forceps are used as offensive and defensive weapons. They are found worldwide and adults are 1/4 - 1" long with an elongated and flattened body. They are pale brown with dark markings to reddish brown to black, with paler wings. Their front wings are short and leathery, hind wings and membrane and fan shaped. They release an unpleasant odor when crushed.

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MEASURES TO CONTROL EARWIGS

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Remove unessential mulch, plant debris and objects from around structures. Establish a low-moisture zone which disagrees with earwigs. We treat the foundation and perimeter!

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CHARACTERISTICS OF EARWIGS

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Earwigs are nocturnal and hide during the day in the moist, shady places such as under stones, logs and mulch. Eggs and nymphs can't withstand long periods of dryness. They feed on dead plants and/or insects and are attracted to lights. They typically overwinter outdoors. Nymph development averages 56 days.