Where Earwigs Dare:
Myths and Facts About These Creepy Crawlies

Earwigs are one of those insects that people either find fascinating or creepy. With their long, slender bodies and pincer-like appendages, they are certainly unique in the insect world. However, earwigs have also been the subject of many myths and misconceptions over the years. In this article, we will explore some of these myths and separate fact from fiction when it comes to these fascinating creatures.

Myth: Earwigs crawl into people’s ears while they sleep

This is perhaps the most common myth about earwigs. The idea is that they crawl into people’s ears while they sleep and lay their eggs there. While it is true that earwigs do have a tendency to crawl into dark, damp places, such as crevices and cracks, there is no evidence to suggest that they specifically target human ears. In fact, earwigs are more likely to be found in gardens or under rocks than in people’s beds.

Fact: Earwigs are omnivores

Earwigs are not picky eaters. They will happily consume both plant material and other insects, making them a valuable pest control agent in gardens. However, they have also been known to feed on decaying organic matter and even the occasional small animal.

Myth: Earwigs are dangerous to humans

Despite their intimidating appearance, earwigs are not dangerous to humans. While they do have pincers on their back end, these are primarily used for defense against predators and not for attacking humans. In fact, earwigs are mostly harmless and will only use their pincers if they feel threatened.

Fact: Earwigs have wings

While earwigs may not be known for their flying ability, they do have wings. However, they are not particularly strong flyers and usually only use their wings for short bursts of flight.

Myth: Earwigs are nocturnal

While it is true that earwigs are most active at night, they are not strictly nocturnal. In fact, they can often be found hiding in dark, damp places during the day.

Fact: Earwigs are excellent mothers

Female earwigs are very dedicated mothers. They will lay their eggs in a safe location and then stay with them until they hatch. Once the eggs have hatched, the mother will continue to care for her young by feeding and protecting them until they are old enough to fend for themselves.

Myth: Earwigs can bite humans

While earwigs do have pincers on their back end, they are not capable of biting humans. In fact, their pincers are not strong enough to break human skin.

Fact: Earwigs have been around for a long time

Earwigs are an ancient group of insects that have been around for over 200 million years. Fossil evidence suggests that earwigs have changed very little over this time period, indicating that they are well-adapted to their environment.

FAQs

Q: Are earwigs harmful to plants?

A: While earwigs do consume plant material, they are not typically harmful to plants in small numbers. In fact, they can be beneficial by consuming other insect pests that may be damaging to plants.

Q: How can I control an earwig infestation in my garden?

A: There are several methods for controlling an earwig infestation in your garden, including removing hiding places such as rocks and debris, using sticky traps, and applying insecticides labeled for use against earwigs.

Q: Can earwigs fly?

A: Yes, earwigs have wings, but they are not particularly strong flyers and usually only use their wings for short bursts of flight.

Q: Do earwigs lay their eggs in human ears?

A: No, there is no evidence to suggest that earwigs specifically target human ears for laying their eggs. This is a common myth about earwigs that has been debunked by entomologists.

Q: Are earwigs dangerous to humans?

A: No, earwigs are not considered dangerous to humans. While they do have pincers on their back end, these are primarily used for defense against predators and not for attacking humans.