Have you spotted narrow, dark brown insects with six legs and long pinchers on their backs? You may have an earwig invasion on your hands. But not to worry – there are steps you can take to properly handle an earwig infestation. Here are some things to know about earwigs and tips to get rid of them.

About Earwigs

Earwigs crave moisture, so you will likely spot them in your basement or crawlspace, or underneath a pile of wet leaves. Reduce clutter inside your home and clear your yard of organic material to take away their hiding spots.

Good news is that earwigs are not dangerous, despite their creepy appearance. They don’t cause harm to pets or humans, and they don’t carry disease. And you won’t see them during the day, as they are nocturnal.

These garden pests feed mostly on small insects, plants, and decomposing materials. They enjoy being outdoors but sometimes they follow sources of moisture and damp soil and get into homes. You may see some in your bathroom, yet another sign that you have a lot of moisture or humidity in the area.
Do I Need Professional Service For Earwigs?

How to Get Rid of Earwigs?

The best way to prevent earwigs and other pests in the first place is to encapsulate your basement and crawl space to reduce dampness. You can also fill cracks or holes where they could gain entry. In any case, it’s always best to call a professional pest control company in Gilbert AZ. They will be able to give you advice as to how to detect insect entry points and they will be able to treat your home correctly.

Here are some more DIY tips to keep earwigs away. This mainly consists of cutting off their entry points:

• Fill cracks and holes with steel wool or caulk.
• Seal windows up tight.
• Check screens for tears and holes.
• Cover attic and foundation vents.
• Use a dehumidifier in basements, attics, and bathrooms.
• Don’t stack firewood up against your home’s exterior.
• Don't allow wet leaf piles to accumulate in your yard.

What Else Should You Know About Earwigs?

6 Facts about earwigs in Phoenix, Arizona

1. Earwigs don’t bother humans

They would much rather stick to themselves by hanging out in dark, moist areas under logs or rocks. They only come out at night to feed.

2. Earwigs have pincers with long bodies

You can detect an earwig by the pincers located at the backs of their abdomens. Their long, flat bodies that are black, brown, or red in color will also be a giveaway as to what they are. They are only about an inch long, and most don’t fly. However, some species have two pairs of wings so they can glide or fly in short bursts.

3. Earwigs eat vegetation

Earwigs prefer to feast on wood and leaf piles, as well as areas of dense vegetation right up against your home and shed. Once there, they will gain entry through cracks in the foundation or holes in vents and siding.

4. Earwigs aren’t transmitters of disease

You don’t have to worry about them spreading disease like cockroaches do.

5. Earwigs rarely attack

Earwigs will only attack or pinch you if provoked. This pinch may feel unpleasant but it usually won’t be enough to break the skin or release venom. However, when scared or alarmed, earwigs will release a foul odor.

6. Earwigs attract larger pests

Earwigs may not be that much of a nuisance, but the pests they attract are bigger and more dangerous. These include anything from lizards, birds and spiders to centipedes, frogs and yellow jackets.

There are many reasons why you do not want earwigs in your home or yard, mainly because they can destroy your garden and lure in bigger pests.

Think You Have Earwigs Infestation?

If you have been spotting earwigs lately, it’s time to schedule a free pest inspection with your trusted Phoenix AZ pest control company. Just contact today at 480-550-9220.