Free Inspection Request
European Earwig Control
European earwig removal targets these moisture-loving pests and prevents them from entering your home. Earwigs usually hide in mulch beds, leaf litter, and damp areas around the foundation before getting inside through small cracks and gaps. Our control service focuses on outdoor nesting areas, reduces conditions that attract them, and applies perimeter treatments to form a protective barrier around your house. By dealing with both the source and entry points, we help stop earwig activity from recurring and keep your home protected all year.
More about European Earwigs
Understanding the Threat
Appearance
Like all earwigs, European earwigs’ most noticeable feature is the pair of intimidating-looking forceps (or pincers) protruding from their abdomen. Although these aren’t venomous or used to latch onto the inside of people’s ears, they serve as a defense mechanism against attacks, predators, and rivals. They typically grow to about 16 mm in adulthood, while the nymphs resemble wingless versions of adults and reach maturity after four to five molts.
Behavior
Behavior-wise, European earwigs behave much like regular earwigs. They are omnivorous, preferring to eat sprouting and decaying vegetation and other insects. They are nocturnal creatures, operating mostly at night. Like other insects, they are attracted to light sources during this time and will flock to sources such as patio lights if given the chance.
Preferred Environment
Since European earwigs are nocturnal, they usually hide during the day in secure areas of the house, such as cracks and crevices. They prefer cool, damp places and may settle in certain parts of the house, like kitchens, basements, and bathrooms, during warm weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a European Earwig Infestation?
While full-blown infestations are rare, earwigs may enter your home through various openings due to climate changes if there are areas that are cold and wet, and may create an infestation. Another way in which potential infestations can occur is the secretion of pheromones by European earwigs that attract others of their species.
How do I prevent a European Earwig infestation?
To prevent earwig infestations, eliminate hiding places by clearing debris and maintaining a dry zone around your home’s foundation. Replace outdoor white bulbs with yellow to reduce attraction and ensure gutters direct water away from the house. Inside, reduce moisture with dehumidifiers and fix structural issues that allow entry.