Uncovering the Mystery:
What Brings Earwigs to Your Home

Earwigs are one of the most intimidating insects that can invade your home. Their pincers and quick movements make them a frightening sight to behold. And while they may seem like a random pest that appears out of nowhere, there are specific reasons why earwigs show up in your home.

In this article, we will uncover the mystery behind what brings earwigs to your home and what you can do to prevent them from entering.

What are Earwigs?

Earwigs are insects that belong to the order Dermaptera. They are commonly found in gardens and are known for their elongated bodies and pincers at the end of their abdomen. Earwigs are typically nocturnal, which means they are active at night.

The name “earwig” comes from the old wives’ tale that these insects crawl into people’s ears while they sleep. While this is not true, it is still a common misconception about these insects.

What Brings Earwigs to Your Home?

There are several reasons why earwigs may enter your home:

Moisture

Earwigs thrive in moist environments, which means they may enter your home if there is an excess of moisture. This could be due to leaky pipes, damp basements, or excessive humidity.

Food

Earwigs are omnivores and will eat both plants and other insects. If there is an abundance of food in and around your home, earwigs may be attracted to it.

Shelter

Earwigs prefer dark and damp environments, which means they may seek shelter in your home if there are cracks or crevices that provide a suitable hiding place.

How Can You Prevent Earwigs from Entering Your Home?

To prevent earwigs from entering your home, you can take the following steps:

Seal Cracks and Crevices

Earwigs can enter your home through small cracks and crevices. Seal these openings with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent earwigs from entering.

Reduce Moisture

Fix any leaky pipes, repair damp areas in your home, and use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels.

Remove Debris

Earwigs may hide in piles of debris, such as leaves or woodpiles. Remove these items from around your home to reduce the likelihood of earwigs entering.

Use Insecticides

Insecticides can be used to kill earwigs that have already entered your home. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and use them in a well-ventilated area.

FAQ

Are earwigs harmful?

Earwigs are not harmful to humans. While their pincers may look intimidating, they are not strong enough to cause harm.

Do earwigs bite?

Earwigs may pinch if they feel threatened, but their pinch is not strong enough to break human skin.

How do I know if I have an earwig infestation?

If you see multiple earwigs in and around your home, you may have an infestation. Additionally, if you notice damage to plants or other insects missing, earwigs may be the culprit.

Conclusion

While earwigs may seem like a frightening pest, there are steps you can take to prevent them from entering your home. By reducing moisture levels, sealing cracks and crevices, removing debris, and using insecticides, you can keep your home earwig-free.