What are earwigs?
Earwigs are a type of moisture-seeking pest and are an insect that frequently lives outside in our yards and gardens. These unique insects often find their way inside of our Washington homes, garages, and other outbuildings.
Earwigs grow to between ¼ and 1 inch in length and are a reddish-brown color. The earwig's body is flattened from top to bottom and most species have wings but don’t fly. Extending from the abdomen is a pair of pincer-like appendages that these insects are well-known for. They use the pincers to defend themselves against each other and from danger.
Why do I have a problem with earwigs?
Our yards, gardens, and landscaped areas provide earwigs with everything they need to live a happy life. Earwigs live outside feeding on decaying vegetation. Some of their favorite hideouts include under rocks, landscaping timbers, mulch, dense vegetation, and under trash cans or compost bins.
If the weather outside becomes too hot and dry they search out areas of moisture to live more comfortably in—often finding what they are looking for inside our homes, sheds, and garages. They move inside through spaces under basement doors, cracks in the foundation, or through damaged wooden trim. They hide in dark damp areas like basements, closets, laundry rooms, crawl spaces, and bathrooms.
Are earwigs dangerous?
An unfortunate rumor may have made many people believe that earwigs crawl into people's ears at night while they sleep. The good news is there is no truth to this rumor: simply put, earwigs do not use people’s ears as a place to lay their eggs! However, they are nuisance pests and invade our homes in large numbers and are difficult to control.
Do earwigs bite?
Earwigs do not actually bite people but they can pinch. Their menacing-looking pincers on their abdomens are used as a weapon to defend themselves. These pincers aren't likely to break the skin, but the pinch can hurt.
How do I get rid of earwigs?
If you are experiencing problems with earwigs it is best to partner with the professionals. They understand earwigs and know how to eliminate them and keep them from returning. At Prosite Pest Control we eliminate earwigs and other pests through accurate pest identification, a thorough evaluation of your property, and the development of an effective plan of action.
To learn more about our effective pest control plans and how we can work together to eliminate earwigs and other pests from your residential or commercial property, reach out to us at Prosite Pest Control. Request your free consultation today!
How do I prevent problems with earwigs?
At Prosite Pest Control, in addition to our pest control treatments, we recommend implementing the following prevention tips for earwigs:
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Cut shrubbery and bushes back away from the exterior of your home
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Inspect the foundation and exterior doors, seal any gaps discovered
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Repair damaged wooden door and window trim
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Remove woodpiles, leaf debris, and other clutter from your yard that attracts earwigs
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Keep trash cans and recycling bins up off of the ground and place them away from the outside of your home
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Keep humidity levels in your home low by using dehumidifiers and air-conditioners
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Place ventilating fans in the kitchen and any bathrooms
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Make sure gutters are working to direct water away from the outside of your home to help keep the soil dry
Prosite Pest Control is always ready to assist with any pest control issues. Call the professionals today to schedule a home visit and to control earwigs safely and effectively!
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