Earwigs

Recognized by their pincers and nocturnal behavior, earwigs are omnivorous insects that thrive in damp environments. Learn about the common species found in the U.S.

Earwigs Uncovered: Identifying the Pincer-Tailed Insect

Earwigs are easily identified by the pincers, or cerci, located at the end of their abdomen. Adults measure about 1.3 to 2.5 cm in length and are typically dark brown or reddish-brown, sometimes with lighter or striped bodies compared to their younger counterparts. Although most earwigs have wings, they rarely use them to fly.

Where Earwigs Hide and What They Eat

Being nocturnal, earwigs tend to hide during the day in damp, dark places such as under rocks, mulch, leaf litter, or logs. At night, they become active and feed on a wide variety of materials, including decomposing plant matter, live plants, fruits, flowers, and even other insects. This makes them both scavengers and occasional predators.

When Earwigs Invade Your Home: Habitat & Danger

Earwigs often travel in small groups and are usually found near moist areas inside homes, such as bathrooms, damp basements, and overly wet kitchens. Their thigmotactic behavior—seeking out close contact with surfaces—draws them to these environments. While earwigs are not dangerous to humans, their presence can cause discomfort, and in large numbers, they may damage garden plants and spoil stored food.

Earwig Invasion in the USA

Earwig infestations are becoming more common across the U.S. due to ideal conditions created by warm, wet climates. Frequent rainfall and high humidity promote breeding and survival, contributing to rising populations. Without proper control, large infestations can lead to food contamination, soil disruption, and environmental imbalance.