Are Earwigs Dangerous?

Solely based on their name, earwigs are not an insect most of us want to encounter. In addition to their unusual name, these pests alarm homeowners for an even more peculiar reason; many people believe earwigs crawl into human ears at night to lay their eggs and feed on brains. If you have earwigs in your living space, don’t panic: PURCOR is here to share what an earwig is, if earwigs are dangerous, and how to avoid and control an earwig issue in your home owith our pest control solutions. 

What is an Earwig?

Earwig bugs are nocturnal insects that may find their way into your home through open crevices around your windows, doors, and walls. They are on the lookout for dark, damp areas of your home where they can lay their eggs and hunt. Earwigs are dark brown with light-colored legs and pincers on their abdomens. Additionally, they enjoy eating other insects and plants. 

What Do Earwigs Do?

Outside your home, earwigs can actually be beneficial because of their appetite. Around your yard or garden, earwigs will eat the decaying matter. When an earwig finds its way into your home, however, it can be bothersome when they eat your plants and other matter. Contrary to old folktales and urban legends, earwigs do not crawl into people’s ears while they sleep.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

In general, earwigs are more annoying than they are dangerous. Earwig bugs are not venomous, and will only be defensive with their pincers if you try to pick them up. Although these insects look intimidating, they don’t pose much danger to you or your home. 

How To Avoid Earwigs

The best way to avoid earwig bugs in your home is to get rid of any moist areas in your basement and crawl spaces. Also, be sure to seal any open ways into your home so that they cannot find a way in. Be aware of what food might attract earwigs by keeping your floors clean and taking your trash out often. 

To keep earwigs away from the outside of your property, you will want your yard to be kept up. Try to pick up any piles of wood and leaves around your yard, and if you do have a pile, don’t keep it close to your home. If you do find yourself in a situation where earwigs are all over your yard or enter your home, you will want to call professionals to take care of the problem, because at-home solutions may not offer long-term results. 

Discover Earwig Control with PURCOR

Do you have an issue with earwig bugs in or around your house or business? PURCOR has many service areas with highly trained professionals to help you out. Whether you have an existing problem or are looking to be proactive, our environmentally-conscious pest control solutions are sure to get the job done. Contact us today to begin earwig control for your home.