What Are Earwigs?
Earwigs are insects that look for vegetation to eat. They aren’t dangerous to humans, even though they might look like they are. But even though they pose no health risk, they can still become a cumbersome presence due to their large numbers. Some facts to know about earwigs include:
- They like to live in large groups.
- Some earwigs may have wings but typically don’t fly.
- They tend to come out at night.
- Earwigs hide in damp, cool places during the day.
- They love water.
- Their diet includes vegetation like leaves, fruit, and flowers.
- They also eat smaller insects like aphids.
Some gardeners like to have these insects around because they can eat aphids and other ant-attracting insects. However, they also eat away at the garden itself.
What Does An Earwig Look Like?
These insects look threatening, with a scary presence that has made many speculate on their dangers. You may have heard the rumors that they burrow into human ears, but this is only fiction. Earwigs:
- Have two sharp pincers
- Have two antennae
- Have six legs
- Range from 1/5 of an inch to 2 inches long
- Have a fat abdomen (back section)
An earwig can pinch you with its pincers, but the occurrence is rare. An earwig bite is even less likely and less harmful. They also don’t have any venom, nor do they carry disease, so an earwig pinch isn’t too concerning. Their main hindrance to us is their large numbers, which can overwhelm properties with too much moisture.
Where Do Earwigs Come From?
Places with moisture or vegetation attract these pests. Their initial dwellings are usually outside, but if they find their way into a property, they will quickly invade the entire structure. Earwigs tend to live in:
- Rotting wood
- Mulch
- Piles of wet leaves
- Bathrooms
- Damp basements
- Crawl spaces
Due to their predilection for moisture, they can signify water damage in the house. They will find your leaky pipes for you. But once they do, they’ll quickly invite their friends and you may have a huge problem on your hands. As earwig control professionals at EnviroGuard, we can offer some advice on keeping earwig insect problems at bay.
What Should I Do To Get Rid Of The Earwigs In My Apartment?
Despite posing no health threats, their propensity to travel in large numbers can be irritating. If you’re worried about them getting into your apartment, you can take several actions. Proper earwig control includes:
- Find and fix leaky pipes.
- Dry up all moisture and standing water.
- Treat drains where water might be luring them in.
- Clean up courtyards or other outside areas.
- Remove any dead wood from around the property.
- Check vegetation outside for them.
- Look for them at night.
Once they get in, their numbers might become unbearable. Professionals can help you get rid of earwigs without a headache. At EnviroGuard, we provide guaranteed satisfaction for any pest. Our expertise in pest control alleviates any pest problem without exception. Having serviced commercial and residential areas, we know how to tailor solutions to the property. Call us today.