Earwigs are small, slender insects recognized by their distinctive pincers on their abdomen, which they use for defense and mating rituals. Though they are generally outdoor creatures, preferring damp areas like under mulch, stones, and logs, earwigs can enter homes seeking moisture and food. Despite their somewhat menacing appearance, earwigs are mostly harmless to humans and do not spread diseases, but their presence can be unsettling and they can damage household plants and other soft plant materials.
Why Are Earwigs a Problem?
Nuisance in Homes
Earwigs can become a nuisance when they invade homes, often during dry or overly wet conditions when they are seeking shelter.
Damage to Plants
They feed on a wide variety of plants and can cause damage to garden flowers and vegetables by eating holes in foliage and flowers.
Large Numbers
Earwig infestations can occur in large numbers, which can be distressing to many homeowners.
Indoor Contamination
While not dangerous, earwigs inside the house can contaminate food and other household surfaces with their feces.
Signs of Earwig Infestation
Sightings of Earwigs
Frequent sightings of earwigs inside your home, especially in kitchen areas, laundry rooms, or basements, indicate a potential infestation.
Damage to Plants
Noticing irregular holes and chew marks on the leaves and petals of plants both indoors and in the garden.
Moist Sheltered Areas
Finding earwigs under potted plants, in stacks of newspapers, or other moist areas inside your home.
Earwig Droppings
Small, black, or brown droppings near food sources or where earwigs might be hiding.
Earwig FAQ’s
What attracts earwigs into my home?
Earwigs are primarily attracted to moisture. Leaky plumbing, damp basements, or any water accumulation around the home can attract these pests. They also come indoors during extreme weather conditions, like excessive heat or rain.
How can I prevent earwigs from entering my house?
Preventing earwigs involves eliminating moisture buildup around the foundation, sealing cracks and crevices, and maintaining a dry interior environment. Properly ventilating basements, kitchens, and bathrooms, and using dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture inside the home.
Are earwigs dangerous or poisonous?
Earwigs are not poisonous and they do not transmit diseases. Their pincers can pinch if handled, but they rarely break the skin. The pinch can cause minor discomfort but no serious harm.
What is the best way to get rid of earwigs?
Reducing outdoor harborages like mulch, logs, and other debris close to the house can help reduce earwig populations. Inside, vacuuming them up can effectively remove them without causing harm. For persistent problems, especially outdoors, consider using insecticidal sprays that are labeled for earwig control, applied around the building’s foundation and entry points.
Don’t Let Earwigs Take Over Your Home!
If you suspect you have a earwig problem, don’t wait. Contact Pest Pro for a professional inspection and effective treatment. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge and tools to eliminate earwigs and restore your peace of mind.
Why Pest Pros?
- We Get the Job Done Right: Pests hide in the toughest spots. With over 40 years of combined experience, we know where to look and how to tackle the problem.
- Safety & Expertise: We use only high-quality, EPA-approved products and invest in ongoing training for our technicians. Your family’s safety is our priority.
- Guaranteed Results: Our proven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach eliminates pests and prevents them from returning. If they do, we’ll come back at no additional cost.
If the Pests Come Back, We Come Back
Pest Control Treatment Includes
In Depth Inspection
Our pest specialist will perform a in-depth inspection of your home; we are looking for conducive conditions that pest thrive in. You tech might fight signs of rodent activity, active ant trails, or moisture-related issues.
Preventive Pest Service
Your pest service program will include monitoring stations for pest activity and target applications for pest found. Slow release granular application around your home and a protective spray barrier to stop pest from moving in.
What Pests Want
Yes, we give pests what they want: Food! Our pest specialist carry a variety of food that pests cannot resist, and they know how to carefully apply the right solutions in common nesting spots for effective elimination.
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