What Are Earwigs?

Earwigs are distinctive insects instantly recognizable by the large pincers (cerci) protruding from their rear end. Despite persistent myth, earwigs do not crawl into human ears. They are brown or reddish-brown, elongated insects measuring about 0.5 to 0.75 inches in length. Earwigs are nocturnal scavengers that feed on decaying plant matter, fungi, and occasionally living plant tissue. They prefer dark, damp environments and are typically found in soil, mulch, leaf litter, and under bark. While they can occasionally become pests in homes, earwigs are primarily outdoor insects that cause damage to gardens, ornamental plants, and landscaping.

When Earwigs Become a Problem Indoors

Earwigs occasionally invade homes, particularly during periods of heavy rain or extreme heat when outdoor conditions become unsuitable. They enter through cracks, crevices, foundation gaps, and openings around doors and windows. Once inside, they seek dark, damp areas—basements, crawlspaces, bathrooms, and areas around plumbing. Large numbers of earwigs in a home indicate serious moisture problems or exterior entry points. Homeowners often discover earwigs in bathtubs, sinks, and other wet areas where they become trapped. While earwigs do not pose a direct health threat, their presence inside is unsettling and indicates an infestation that demands professional treatment.

Garden & Landscape Damage

Earwigs are serious garden pests. They feed on seedlings, vegetables, flowers, and tender plant foliage, creating ragged holes and damage. They are particularly attracted to dahlias, zinnias, marigolds, lettuce, celery, and other soft-tissue plants. Earwig damage typically appears as irregular holes and chewed edges on leaves and flowers. Heavy infestations can devastate a garden or ornamental landscape. Their nocturnal feeding habit means damage is often discovered in the morning, but the culprits are hidden by day.

Seasonal Activity

Earwigs are most active in warm months, particularly summer and early fall. They reproduce in late summer and early fall; females lay eggs in soil or protected locations that overwinter and hatch in spring. Peak complaints about indoor earwig invasions typically occur after heavy spring rains or during hot, dry spells when outdoor conditions drive them indoors. Garden damage is most visible mid-summer through fall as populations grow and feeding increases.

Earwig damage threatening your garden or home? Contact Knight Pest Control today for professional identification and elimination.