Earwigs are distinctive insects easily recognized by the pincer-like appendages, called cerci, at the end of their abdomen. These pincers give earwigs an intimidating appearance, leading to common myths about them crawling into ears, which is completely false. Earwigs are primarily outdoor insects that become indoor nuisances when conditions drive them to seek shelter inside homes.
Despite their alarming appearance, earwigs are not dangerous to humans. They do not bite, do not spread disease, and their pincers are too weak to break human skin. However, when they invade homes in large numbers, they are an unwelcome presence that indicates underlying moisture or entry point issues.
Earwigs thrive in moist, dark environments. Outdoors, they live under mulch, leaf litter, stones, landscape timbers, and in garden beds. They become indoor invaders when outdoor conditions become too hot, too dry, or too wet, pushing them to seek more stable environments.
In Hampton Roads, earwig activity peaks during the hot, humid summer months when populations are at their highest. They enter homes through gaps under doors, cracks in foundations, spaces around utility penetrations, and through damaged weatherstripping. Once inside, they are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements where moisture levels are highest.
Effective earwig management combines perimeter treatment with moisture reduction and exclusion. A residual insecticide applied around the foundation, doorways, windows, and other entry points creates a barrier that kills earwigs before they enter the home. Reducing moisture around the foundation by improving drainage, fixing leaks, and reducing mulch depth within the first foot of the foundation discourages earwig harborage near the home.
Sealing cracks, gaps, and spaces around entry points prevents earwigs from finding their way inside. Inside the home, dehumidifiers in damp areas reduce the moisture that attracts earwigs and other moisture-loving pests.
Our earwig control services address both the immediate problem and the underlying conditions that make your home attractive to earwigs.
Learn everything that you need to know about earwig control.
