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The following question was sent to the P&PDL diagnosticians here at Purdue University: Question: I am a new homeowner under siege. Earwigs have invaded my house. I know they are harmless, yet they give my wife the Heebee Geebee's. How can I stop them from coming into my house? And by the way are those pinchers a scare tactic or do they really work?
-- Corey Gerber, entomology diagnostician Information listed is valid only for the state of Indiana. The information given herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service is implied. Any person using products listed assumes full responsibility for their use in accordance with current direction of the manufacturer. Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access institution. |
Answer: Earwigs
are a nuisance pest which can sometimes build up to high populations
during warm weather. They are primarily nocturnal scavengers
on decaying animal and plant material. Often they will occur
along foundations of homes or under crawl spaces where it is
cool and damp and enter homes through cracks and ducts. Mulched
flower beds and compost pits are also a prime habitat. Chemical
treatments in areas where the earwigs breed are most effective.
Earwigs do not bite, but if handled, will attempt to pinch with
their cerci (pinchers) which can be painful.
Site last updated:
26 May, 2009