Earwigs
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- Dark brown in color
- They have forcep-like cerci extending from the rear of their abdomen (look like pinchers)
- On male earwigs, the forceps can be quite large
- Size: Approximately 1 inch in length
- Catch and eat other insects<./li>
- Nocturnal and hide during the day while roaming at night to find food and water
Behavior and Habitat of Earwigs
Earwigs will catch and eat other insects. They also feed on plants, ripe fruit, and garbage. Plants that are fed on include clover, dahlias, zinnias, butterfly bush, hollyhock, lettuce, strawberry, celery, potatoes, roses, seedling beans and beets, and tender grass shoots and roots. Earwigs are nocturnal, hiding during the day and roaming at night to find food and water. Around homes, they hide in garden plants, in shrubbery, along fences, in woodpiles, at the base of trees, and behind loose boards on buildings. While they are mainly an outdoor pest, their habit of hiding among petals or leaves of plants allows them to be brought frequently into the home.
Signs of Infestation of Earwigs
They do not spread diseases but their menacing appearance can be alarming.
Tips for Prevention of Earwigs
The most important part of controlling earwigs is eliminating their hiding places. Remove harborage sites such as leaf piles, mulch piles or other vegetation and seal cracks and crevices around the home well.
Earwig Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
New Year Pest Control Resolutions for Your South Florida Home
Dec 19, 2022—Rodents, Pest Control, Rodents
A new year means new pests are trying to call your South Florida house their home. This year, along with new year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, attitude, and whatever other things you want to change in your life, make this year the year you keep your South Florida home...
Read More ›
Expert Advice on Protecting Your Home and Lawn from Pests this Winter
Dec 08, 2022—Florida Lawn Care
Living in South Florida means rodents, ants, and other pests don't take the winters off! Meanwhile, your lawn needs less watering and mowing during the winter months and is susceptible to various diseases such as brown patch fungus. Your lawn in winter While we’re outdoors, let’s talk...
Read More ›
Be Thankful for a Pest-Free Home This Holiday Season
Nov 15, 2022—Pest Control, Tips & Control Advice
Thanksgiving starts off the holiday season in grand style with a sumptuous feast surrounded by family and friends. If you’re hosting one of these Thanksgiving gatherings, you‘ve probably got a lot on your to-do list getting ready for the big day. Pests, such as roaches, ants, and...
Read More ›
