The Dangers of Earwigs and Why Prompt Pest Control is Essential

What Are Earwigs?

First, let’s define what an earwig is! The earwig's scientific name is Forficula auricularia, which literally translates to "hearing forceps" - referring to the pest's large and pliable pincers (or cerci) which are located at the end of its body. They are mostly found in areas with a temperate climate. Depending on the species, they can measure anywhere between 5 and 25 millimeters and come in a range of colors between light brown and black. 

Their name derives from a popular myth found throughout Europe, according to which earwigs enter human ears and lay eggs inside them, eventually growing and living there. In reality, this is not true and it is merely an old wives’ tale with no scientific backing. 

Despite not living in human ears, earwigs are known to live close to us and inhabit moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and even rotting logs that can be found inside or outside of your home.

Where Do Earwigs Come From?

Earwigs are native to the Northern Hemisphere, so if you live in the US, chances are that you have encountered at least one of them due to their widespread presence. 

These pests are easily attracted to organic materials like dead wood, manure, mulch, and decomposing plants, making them quite common in residential or rural areas. Similarly, earwigs are attracted to water sources inside buildings, which is why you can find them living inside sump pumps or wet areas of your home.

What Do Earwigs Feed On?

Even though they are mainly considered pests, earwigs are actually beneficial to your garden as they can help you eliminate some bugs and keep plant-feeding insects away from your vegetables and flowers.

This is especially true when it comes to aphids, mites, and scale insects, which are earwigs’ favorite food. However, earwigs also tend to feed on dead or living insects and vegetation, making them omnivores and opportunistic.

What Are The Dangers of an Earwig Infestation?

If you’re noticing an abundance of earwigs in your home, here are some of the signs of an infestation can include:

• Seeing earwigs crawling throughout your space including along walls and in dark spaces
• Noticing a foul odor in your home 
• Finding small, scattered holes in furniture, walls, and carpets
• Noticing plants in the home and garden that have been chewed or damaged

Earwigs are not typically known to bite and their bite is usually harmless, but they can be a nuisance in and around the home. Additionally, some of their activity, such as eating through plant material, can cause unintentional destruction of valuable plants, vegetables, and flowers.

DIY Earwig Control

If you are struggling with an earwig infestation, there are several DIY measures you can take to reduce their numbers and prevent them from coming back. These include:

• Setting out traps - Traps, such as boric acid-filled cotton balls, can be used to attract and kill earwigs before they find their way into your home.
• Encourage natural predators - Earwigs may not like certain birds and reptiles, so consider using them to keep the earwig population in check.
• Fix any entry points - Take a look at your home’s exterior for cracks or other entry points for earwigs. Caulk any cracks and replace any weather stripping inside your home to keep them out.
• Use insecticide - If all else fails, you can always use insecticide to kill any earwigs that have already found their way inside your home.

While these DIY methods may be effective in some cases, they are often not enough to completely get rid of an earwig infestation. That’s why it’s important to enlist the help of professional pest control services.

Professional pest control technicians have the experience and expertise to identify the source of the problem and develop an effective plan of action to eliminate the earwigs and prevent them from coming back. They will also be able to provide you with advice and guidance on how to keep your property free of earwigs in the future.

Why Is Prompt Pest Control Essential?

Since earwigs are material feeders and opportunists, preventing them from entering your home is essential and prompt pest control is the best way to do it. Home remedies can help deter them, but ultimately professional pest control services are key and our team at Eyring Pest Control has the experience and knowledge to get the job done. 

We specialize in the elimination of earwigs, as well as other common pests, and we use environmentally friendly products to keep your family safe from harm. 

So, don’t wait, call us now at 385-290-9782 or contact us through our website and have one of our certified technicians inspect your home and eradicate any signs of pests you might have!

Call Eyring Pest Control for Professional Pest Control Services in West Jordan, UT

If you’re worried you may be dealing with an earwig infestation in your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Eyring Pest Control. Our team of expert technicians specializes in pest control services and can help you get rid of your infestation and prevent future invasions. Give us a call at 385-290-9782 to learn more about our services and how we can help.