Earwig

Identification

Earwigs range in size from 1/4 to 1 inch long. They have elongated, flattened bodies that vary in color from pale brown with dark markings to reddish brown to black. They have 6 legs and thread like antenna that measures about half of their body length. Earwigs are common in Madison Wisconsin but are typically not seen indoors. They have pincers that protrude from the back of their abdomen, which they use for defense, mating, and grooming. They also have 2 pairs of wings, but most earwig species do not fly, and the ones that do only do in short bursts.

Lifecycle

Earwigs go through incomplete metamorphosis, which means they hatch from eggs and grow into adults without changing their body shape. The stages of their lifecycle are egg, nymph, and adult.

Mating seasons typically occur in the fall and early winter months. Female earwigs will carry eggs around until she finds a spot to lay them, typically burrowed into a spot under leaves, in soil, or in a crevice. Females can lay anywhere from 20-80 eggs up to twice per year.

Baby earwigs will hatch 7 days after being laid. They look like miniature versions of the adults, but with softer bodies and smaller pincers. They will go through 4-6 molts before they reach adulthood, shedding their old skin and growing a new one each time. It takes around 40-60 days from when they were hatched to reach full adulthood status.

Reproduction

Earwigs will mate in the fall and the males and females usually spend the winter together in specially constructed nests. In early spring, the females force the males out of the nest and then begin to lay her eggs. Earwigs are one of the few insect species that will take care of their babies when they hatch. Females will help them feed until they are able to feed themselves.

Habitat

Earwigs live together outdoors in large numbers. They can be found under piles of lawn debris, mulch, or in tree holes. They prefer moist and dark environments where they can hide from predators and find food. They feed on leaves, flowers, fruits, mold, and insects at night.

Earwigs can also enter homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation, doors, windows, or vents. They are attracted to water sources and areas of high moisture content. They can be found around bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and basements. They are also attracted to lights causing them to be a nuisance on patios and porches during summer evenings.

Behavior

Earwigs are mostly nocturnal insects that are active at night and hide during the day. They seek out cold wet areas that are left undisturbed, such as small, moist crevices. They are not aggressive insects and will only use their pincers when threatened or disturbed. They can also emit a foul odor when disturbed.

Earwigs do not like to live in most homes. They like damp organic environments, which most homes do not have. They want the damp organic environments to be able to make their nest and lay their eggs. Earwigs are usually accidental invaders that wander into homes by mistake or in search of food or shelter.

Fun Facts

• Contrary to popular belief earwigs do not actually crawl inside your ears to lay their eggs or feed on your brain. This myth may have originated from the fact that earwigs are attracted to moist places and may sometimes crawl into ear canals of sleeping people or animals.
• Some species can fly but most are unable to fly or only fly in short bursts.
• Earwigs are omnivorous insects that eat both plants and animals. They can help control pests such as aphids, mites, and slugs by eating them.

If you are having trouble with earwigs, call the Experts Today for an honest quote and evaluation to meet your specific needs!

Kwik Kill Services to control Earwigs:  

• Home Protection Program
• Insect & Rodent Combo Package 
• One-Time Pest Control Services

Additional Information:

https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/earwigs/
https://extension.umn.edu/nuisance-insects/earwigs
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-2068