Earwigs

Although they are primarily outdoor insects, earwigs frequently become an indoor problem when environmental conditions push them toward 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 typically report seeing many earwigs at once, rather than a slow buildup as a result 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 conditions arounf the home.

Although earwigs do not cause structural damage, these pests can become a nuisance and contaminate your food or surfaces. Effective earwig control requires more than a simple removal of 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

Primarily, earwig activity in the United States 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 and around 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 do have flying capabilities and the species is known to thrive with moist environments including in soil and 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 species commonly found in establishments, particularly in warmer regions of the United States. This species is more commonly found in soil and landscaped areas, but still 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 crawling, this type of earwig typically enters homes through access points such as foundational cracks or door openings and their 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 the a coastline. Residents located near beaches, docks, or waterfront areas may experience an influx of these earwigs due to high exterior populations. Much like the ring-legged earwig, this species does not fly, but they are strong crawlers who adapt well to 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 ant 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 ants becoming a problem is the single best way to avoid ants 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 ant 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.