Pest Control Guide: Earwigs (order dermaptera)
Earwigs got their name from the myth that they crawl into sleeping people’s ears and tunnel into their brains. The long cerci, or clippers, on their backsides easily identify an earwig.
Earwig Habitat
These insects live together outdoors in large numbers. They can be found under piles of lawn debris, mulch or in tree holes. They gain entry to a structure through exterior cracks
Habits
Earwigs hide during the day and feeds on leaves, flowers, fruits, mold and insects at night.
Earwig Control/Prevention
Remove harborage sites such as leaf piles, mulch piles or other vegetation to get these rid of these pests. Seal cracks and crevices well can also minimize & prevent structural entry.
Threats
Contrary to folklore, earwigs do not crawl into ears and eat peoples’ brains at night. They do not spread diseases, but their menacing appearance can be alarming to a homeowner.
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