Earwigs

Although earwigs are primarily outdoor insects, they frequently become an indoor problem when environmental conditions push them towards a structure. Elements such as heavy rain, irrigation, or temperature changes can drive earwigs out of the soil, mulch, or landscaping they typically hide in. Homeowners usually report seeing many earwigs at once, rather than a slow buildup because of their sudden and heavy migration.

Earwigs are drawn to cool, damp and protected areas. Commonly found in basements, bathrooms, and places with moisture, earwigs like to hide during the day under flooring, appliances, or any damp areas. Considering earwigs enter through foundational gaps, doors, or utility lines, their indoor activity reflects exterior openings around the home.

Despite this pest not causing structural damage, they can become a nuisance and contaminate your food or surfaces. Effective earwig control requires more than simply removing the visible insects, which is why EcoShield Pest Solutions develops a strategy to combat exterior earwig populations and introduce new protective barriers for prevention.

COMMON TYPES OF Earwigs IN YOUR HOME

Earwig activity in the United States primarily comes from a small number of species that live outdoors but migrate inside when environmental changes occur. Earwigs are highly dependent on moisture and shelter, which is why indoor sightings increase after heavy rainfall or seasonal shifts in temperature. As these outdoor conditions become less favorable, earwigs seek protection in areas such as homes, which provide ideal hiding spaces for this insect.

EUROPEAN EARWIG

The European earwig (Forficula auricularia) is the most common earwig found in homes across the country. Despite their name, these earwigs are well established throughout the United States, and are responsible for the majority of residential complaints. Although they are often thought of as crawling insects, European earwigs have flying capabilities and the species is known to thrive with in moisture, soil, or around foundations.

1/2″ – 3/4″ in length
Reddish-brown with a flattened body
Equipped pincers at the end of the abdoment
Nocturnal & occasional flyer

RING-LEGGED EARWIGS

Ring-legged earwigs (Euborellia annulipes) are another type of earwig species commonly found in warmer regions of the United States. This earwig is often found in soil and landscaped areas, but can enter homes if the conditions are right. Ring-legged earwigs cannot fly, keeping their movement localized and concentrated to the ground level. Considering they rely on their crawling abilities, this type of earwig typically enters through access points such as foundational cracks or door openings and activity is usually limited to lower floors.

1/2" to 3/4" in length
Dark brown to black coloration
Smaller pincers compared to European earwig
Cannot fly

SEASIDE EARWIGS

Primarily found in coastal areas of the United States, seaside earwigs (anisolavis maritima) prefer to live under debris such as driftwood or landscaping materials near a coastline. Residents located near beaches, docks, or waterfront areas may experience an influx of these earwigs due to high exterior populations and the presence of moist environments.

Up to 1" in length
Dark brown to black color
Thick, flat appearance
Large pincers

Prevention is usually much easier and more manageable than attempting to treat an infestation. If you’ve experienced earwig problems in the past or are concerned that your home may be at risk, contact EcoShield for an inspection and front-line treatment plan. Protecting yourself prior to earwigs becoming a problem is the single best way to avoid them altogether. Our year-round Shield Protection Plan can also prevent and control ants before they become a problem.

SEE earwigs? TAKE THESE STEPS

If you see one earwig, it’s safe to say that there are more crawling around in your walls, between the cracks, and reproducing where you can’t see them. Your earwig problem will not go away on its own, and some pest control methods are ineffective.

Want to get rid of your earwigs for good? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Call EcoShield Pest Solutions today for a free estimate.
Step 2: Avoid trying to treat your earwig problem before our team of experts can properly identify the type of earwig invading your property.
Step 3: Schedule a time that works best for you. The pest control technicians at EcoShield always strive to accommodate your schedule.
Step 4: Watch your pest control problem disappear and eliminate your stress and worry.

At EcoShield, we help you through every step of the pest control treatment process. Whether you have general questions about earwigs in your home or you need to get rid of a damaging infestation, our experts are trained to answer any questions and provide the best solution for you.