Earwigs

There are many superstitions; some are amusing if we give them thought. Like: a rabbits foot will bring good luck, but not if you are the bunny. And who hasn’t thought about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Some superstitions are curious, but most people won’t tempt fate. How many people take an elevator to the thirteenth floor? And who hasn’t seen that famous TV host/cook throw salt over her shoulder when she is in the kitchen prepping a meal?

Superstitions have led to the naming of a common insect found in the garden, and even your house, the earwig. The widespread lore of this bug is that it was thought to crawl into the ear of sleeping people, then bore into the brain. The name Earwig means “ear creature” coming from this superstition.

The most distinguishing physical feature of the earwig is the claw-like forceps on the end of the abdomen. Earwigs use their forceps mainly as protective weapons, but they also use them to capture prey. These pincers are straight on the female, and curved on the male insects.

While they are not brain invaders, they will enter the home by hitching a ride on laundry baskets, cut flowers and plants, newspapers, and fruits and vegetables. They will migrate indoors to find protection from prolonged heat and drought.

Prevention is the best and first line of defense to keep the earwig out of the home. They are attracted to lights, so minimizing the use of exterior lighting, if feasible, is a good way to start. Earwigs need, and are very attracted to, moisture. These scavengers are nocturnal, so they may be hard to notice during the day but are present around foundations, in mulch, under boards, etc. Be sure to eliminate damp, moist conditions around the house, such as under faucets and air conditioning units and around the foundation. Use caulking and weather stripping around doors, windows, pipes and other entry sites. Gravel or ornamental stones can be used to make a dry border, and act as an attractive barrier against earwigs. These steps will serve as an inhibitor to the earwig as well as other pests.

If pesticides are used, please read and follow all the directions. Be certain to choose a product labeled for use on earwigs. For more information on earwigs please contact the Penn State Master Gardner Helpline at 570-963-6842 or email: LackawannaMG@psu.edu to request a copy of our fact sheet on this insect.

Steve Ward
Master Gardener Coordinator