Earwigs

These small pests are members of the Dermapter order. They’re easy to identify because they have smooth, lengthy bodies and a pair of cerci. Their cerci are horny appendages that look like claws. Earwigs use their small pincers to pinch skin but they’re usually not able to break the skin. Male members of the group tend to have curvier and larger cerci than their female counterparts. The cerci range in size from tiny to a third of the pest’s body. Another unique thing about earwigs is the fact that there are wingless and winged earwigs. Even when they have wings, it is uncommon for earwigs to fly.

Earwigs have dark brown or reddish-brown bodies that range in size from a quarter of an inch to half an inch. The Saint Helena Giant Earwig is much longer with some of them reaching three inches. There are more than 900 Dermaptera species today. In general, these pests live in areas with temperate climates. There is a myth that earwigs can enter human ears and burrow into human brains. Thankfully, this isn’t true.

Reasons For Earwig Infestations

Earwigs are interesting pests because they do not like being stuck outside during dry, hot weather. When the temperatures in your area rise, you can guarantee that earwigs are going to sneak inside. They like staying near damp, west areas. When they sneak into residences and businesses, they’re going to find plenty of great places to hide. They’ll hide in attics, crawlspaces, and bathrooms. Another thing to know about earwigs is that they’re nocturnal. They prefer hiding during the day and roaming at night. Besides bathrooms, they can also be found in kitchens and basements.

During the evening and night, they will consume mites, fleas, and plants. If you have a flea infestation, you’ll likely have to deal with earwigs too.

Primary Earwig Dangers

Unfortunately, some pests are more dangerous than others. Earwigs are not as dangerous as others. They’re a nuisance but they’re usually not dangerous. As mentioned above, these pests can use their cerci to squeeze your skin and pinch you. Thankfully, they aren’t strong enough to break your skin. You’ll also appreciate that they can’t inject venom into their victims. Therefore, you shouldn’t worry about your health. Your primary concern should be the fact that they’re going to damage your garden and indoor plants. Get rid of them or they’ll demand your beautiful blossoms.

Tips For Removing Earwigs

It is wise to deal with the earwigs on your property as quickly as possible. The best way to do that is by reducing the earwig population around your structure. Remember that these pests are attracted to moisture and light. Therefore, you should reduce the amount of light coming from your home. Use better curtains to prevent the light from coming through. You can also try switching to sodium vapor yellow lights. They’re less attractive to these pests. Finally, make sure that they cannot find a way to enter your home. Spend time sealing all gaps around doors, windows, utility lines, and plumbing pipes.

When Can You Get Here?

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Safe Earwig Treatments

Our company works diligently to protect its clients. We’re not going to use dangerous chemicals around our spouses and children. We’re going to do the same for you. When possible, we’ll eliminate the problem using natural tools and products. However, we may need to use conventional products. Don’t worry. Our skilled, experienced technicians will do everything possible to protect you. We’ll make sure that you’re going to okay. We use products that are minimally toxic so you can rest assured knowing you, your loved ones, and your pets will be protected.

The products we administer are EPA-registered so we can protect you to the fullest.

Preventing Earwig Invasions

Unfortunately, it’ll be difficult to keep earwigs out of your home. Nevertheless, you can take steps to make it harder for them to invade. Once we’ve removed them, you don’t want them to return. Therefore, you should begin by reducing the population of earwigs around your home. Again, be sure to switch to sodium vapor lights. They’re less attractive to these pests. You’ll also want to properly seal the exterior walls of your home. Be sure to fill gaps around windows, doors, plumbing pipes, and utility lines. Do this so earwigs cannot find ways to enter your home. Finally, make sure that your home remains dry.

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