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Earwigs

earwig found in bethlehem pa

Common Pennsylvania Earwig

common earwig found in a home in pennsylvania

Illustration of an earwig

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What are earwigs?

Many people refer to them as “pincher bugs,” but earwig is their official name.  These insects are easily recognized by their long, smooth bodies and pair of appendages at the tip of their abdomen called “cerci”.  Pincer-like in appearance, the cerci are fairly straight on female earwigs and tend to be more curved on the male of the species.  The common earwig is about 5/8 of an inch long.  They are dark brown to reddish-brown in color and occur as winged and wingless insects. Their name comes from the old myth that these insects would enter human ears, burrow into the brain and lay their eggs.  There is no truth to this myth.  

Learn more about Earwigs and how Moyer can help by clicking the links below:

- FAQ's

- Service Area

- Contact Us

Why do I have them?

Earwigs prefer to live outside.  They hide during the daytime in moist, shady places such as under rocks, logs, flower pots or in mulch. Earwigs can make their way indoors, typically by accident, when the conditions outdoors become too harsh for ideal living, such as when the temperatures start to increase or if there is lack of moisture. They get inside our homes or businesses through small holes in brick, cracks in the foundation or siding or by an object getting carried inside that was once located outside, such as the newspaper, lawn furniture, children’s toys or flower pots.   Inside a structure, earwigs will hide under rugs, in potted plants, in clutter on the floor or in damp basements.  

Are they dangerous?

Earwigs are primarily a nuisance pest and only an occasional invader, but they may try and pinch if they are threatened.  This pinch is not dangerous to humans or pets.

How do I get rid of earwigs?

Reducing any source of moisture in or around your home may help discourage earwigs from moving in, but earwigs still may be difficult to control because eliminating every source of moisture is often impossible. A Moyer Service Professional™ can confirm the presence of earwigs and recommend one of our 3 levels of service to help you get rid of earwigs.

Can I do it myself?

Earwigs are not a pest many homeowners have much success eliminating on their own.  Many do-it-yourself repellents and sprays to rid your property of earwigs simply do not work, as the chemicals they use are not effective.  Also, if misused or mixed improperly, pesticides can be very dangerous to people, pets or plants.

Is the treatment safe?

The health and safety of our customers, their families or employees is very important to us and that is why we use Integrated Pest Management products and treatments that are EPA registered for pest control use.  In addition, all of our Service Professionals™ are registered and licensed by the state or local jurisdictions where we provide service to ensure proper application.  

How soon can you get here?

Moyer Service Professionals™ are committed to helping you as soon as possible. In most cases, we can respond the same or very next day.

How can I prevent this in the future?

Many pest problems can be difficult to prevent, so many of our customers choose one of our 3 comprehensive, year round programs to ensure earwigs stay out of their home or business.

Helpful Earwig Articles

What Are Earwigs Looking For?

What Are Earwigs?

Top Earwig Prevention Tips

Are Earwigs Harmful Or Beneficial?

Earwigs: Separating Fact From Fiction

Where does Moyer Indoor | Outdoor service?

Moyer provides service in Souderton, King Of Prussia, Lansdale, and throughout Northampton, Lehigh, Bucks and Montgomery Counties as well as parts of Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia Counties.  Contact us today to learn more about the services available in your area.