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October 30, 2022
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 males 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. Thankfully, there is no truth to this myth.
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 a lack of moisture.
These pests 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 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 earwigs dangerous?
Earwigs are occasional invaders and are primarily a nuisance pest, but they may try to pinch if they are threatened. These pinches are 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 they may still 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 three 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 three comprehensive, year-round pest control plans to ensure earwigs stay out of their home or business.
Where does Moyer Pest Control service?
Moyer provides quality pest protection plans in Souderton, King Of Prussia, Lansdale, and throughout the Northampton, Lehigh, Bucks, and Montgomery counties as well as parts of the Chester, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties. Contact us today to learn more about the services available in your area!
Helpful Earwig Articles
Are Earwigs Harmful Or Beneficial?
Earwigs: Separating Fact From Fiction
What Are These Weird Looking Bugs Around My Souderton Home?
