Earwig Pest Control & Exterminators in Santa Ana, CA

Earwig Appearance & Behavior

Earwigs are slender brown insects with big pincers on their tails. These look intimidating, but they are harmless without any poison or venom. There are many species of earwigs, but they all prefer a wet environmen,t which is why you will find them in gardens, bathrooms, and under sinks by plumbing. 

Earwig Diet & Damages

Earwigs are omnivores that feed on the fresh shoots and sprouts of vegetation and insects like mites and aphids. Sometimes, earwigs can provide some support in controlling the populations of other predatory garden insects, but sometimes they can also contribute to the damage done to certain plants, fruits, and vegetables. They can also do significant damage to brand-new seedlings because the earwigs will strip them of their leaves, which prevents them from growing. The damage caused to the plants’ leaves will look like damage caused by caterpillars, while other shoots will be severed altogether. The damage caused to fruits will look like damage caused by snails, slugs, and worms.

Earwig Prevention

Even though earwigs prefer humid and moist areas to live and breed, they will often find their way into it if it provides shelter from unfriendly conditions. When it is hot outside, earwigs will scramble to find cool, dark areas to hide. If you have ever lifted a potted plant, there are usually several that can be found hiding under the bottom of the pot. This is because this space is dark, cool, and likely a little damp from regular watering. Earwig prevention starts with addressing those harborage points that are found outside. By keeping areas clear of debris and organic refuse, you can prevent earwigs from congregating. This includes clearing mulch and leaves from your yard. It also helps to ensure that exclusion strategies are implemented so access points are sealed to prevent earwigs from finding access inside. This is combined with an exterior perimeter spray.

Quick Facts About Earwigs

Habits

Earwigs feed on plants and decaying plant matter.

Habitat

Earwigs usually hide in dark, warm places during the day.

Threats

Earwigs live in large numbers in mulch piles. These pests can destroy gardens and vegetation around the property.

Prevention

Reducing or eliminating areas of moisture near your home by weeding plant beds and removing woodpiles can prevent earwig infestations.