Earwig Control

Earwigs have been a residential nuisance pest for many years in the United States. There are over ten species in America, but four are most common and likely to invade homes. These include the European, the Shore, the Ring Legged and the Seaside Earwig. Some of these have wings, some have stripes on their abdomens, some are dark brown, but all have pinchers. Earwigs are both plant and insect eaters. In fact, they will eat just about anything. Plant damage looks much like slug damage; the main difference is that slugs will leave a slimy trail behind where earwigs leave no foot prints. Earwig damage will many times happen at night making them even harder to identify. Earwig damage to plants can be extreme. Although it is most common to find small irregular holes in the leaves of the plant, earwigs will readily eat all of the "meat" off leaving only a skeleton frame behind. Earwigs also like insects. Though they may feed as predatory insects, earwigs will readily eat most anything dead and decaying. Since they eat so many different food items, earwigs are likely to find a home and food just about anywhere. However, unlike ants or termites, earwigs will readily establish themselves in the roof, the attic, the basement or the crawlspace. Although some species can fly, most find there way into homes by walking up the side of untreated homes. Once established in the mulch beds and flower beds around your home, earwigs will soon find their way inside.

If you're finding earwigs in the home and don't want them around, you're not alone. We sugest you read our detailed article which covers everything you'll need to know about EARWIG CONTROL and what products work best at keeping them out of the house.