an earwig on a leaf in meridian idaho

What are earwigs?

An earwig is a type of scavenging insect. Earwigs are nocturnal and come out at night to feed on small insects, insect larvae, and plants. Their name originates from the story that these insects crawl into people's ears so they can create a hole in their brain to lay eggs, but sleep soundly tonight, knowing this story has no truth to it! Earwigs have a unique appearance and are easy for most people to identify. A slender oval-shaped body and a pair of pincers extending off the abdomen set them apart from other insects. Boise pest control experts can identify earwigs in your home and help you prevent them.

an earwig on a leaf in meridian idaho

Are earwigs dangerous?

Though many people are afraid of earwigs, they are pests that really don't cause us any major problems. They don't harm people or property. Earwigs are an important predator of aphids. Though beneficial, it is important not to let these insects live in large populations in your gardens as they can damage seedling plants and maturing soft fruits. Also, while the earwig's pincers may look intimidating, they are only strong enough to harm other insects.

Why do I have an earwig problem?

Earwigs are attracted to areas of moisture; yards or homes that have moisture issues are most likely to experience problems with them. Damp basements, leaky pipes, drippy hoses, leaking air conditioners, and piles of organic debris create a moist environment where earwigs can thrive.

Where will I find earwigs?

Outside homes, earwigs thrive in flowerbeds, garden areas, under woodpiles, fallen logs, and spaces under trash cans or other containers. Living near our homes makes it easy for these pests to move inside when it becomes too hot or dry outside. Earwigs generally move in through spaces in the foundation or gaps under basement or exterior doors. Once inside, basements, crawlspaces, and areas under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms are places earwigs call home.

How do I get rid of earwigs?

Get rid of earwigs from your Idaho property the simplest way possible: with the help of an experienced professional! Our Four Season Protection Plan will protect your home from earwigs and other pests throughout the entire year. Using a low-impact approach and high-quality products, we provide long-lasting, affordable pest solutions that you can trust. If you are experiencing problems with earwigs in your Boise or Meridian area home or business, call Owyhee Environmental today!

How can I prevent earwigs in the future?

At Owyhee Environmental, we want to help you prevent problems with earwigs by putting together a list of prevention tips that will make your property less attractive to these pests:

  • Any openings you discover in your home's exterior walls or foundation need to be repaired or sealed to keep earwigs and other insects out of your home.
  • Maintain a barrier between any soil or mulch and your foundation. The more moisture there is near your home, the more likely it will attract earwigs.
  • Rake leaves and weeds back from the foundation of your home.
  • Seal vents leading into your basement or attic.
  • Remove fallen trees, woodpiles, landscaping ties, and store trash cans and recycling bins up off the ground to remove some of the earwig's favorite hiding spots.
  • Keep damp basements dry by using dehumidifiers.

Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.

 

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