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What Is An Earwig?
An earwig is a small insect that belongs to the Dermaptera order. They have a unique appearance thanks to their smooth, long body and horny appendages, which are known as cerci. The size of the cerci depends on the gender. Male earwigs have longer and curvier cerci than female earwigs. The length of the cerci can reach up to 1/3 of the insect’s body length. However, it may be nonexistent as well. Some earwigs are wingless, but others have wings. Nevertheless, it is rare for earwigs to fly. Their color can vary from reddish to dark brown. Most reach lengths between a quarter to a half-inch.
The Saint Helena Giant Earwig is one of the largest species with some reaching up to 3 inches. There are more than 900 species of Dermaptera. The name comes from the myth that earwigs can burrow in human brains and lay eggs by climbing into human ears.
What Causes Earwigs?
When the hot, dry summer months arrive, earwigs will try to enter homes across the United States. They want to stay in dark, damp locations. There is always a risk that earwigs are going to find a way to enter your home. If this happens, they’ll move to damp, dark locations and begin reproducing. These nocturnal insects tend to hide during the day before emerging at night. They prefer hiding in basements, kitchens, and bedrooms. When the sun goes down, they’ll exit their hiding places and try to feed on arthropods. If you have a pest infestation, there is a risk that earwigs will come and feast on those pests.
Are Earwigs Dangerous?
In our service area, earwigs are a nuisance pest. They can use their cerci to pinch your skin. Nevertheless, you won’t need to worry about this pest piercing your skin. Furthermore, they will not release venom to humans. Still, earwigs are problematic because they’ll destroy your garden and household plants. They can destroy blossoms and will eat all decaying organic materials.
How Can I Eliminate Earwigs?
Before you can deal with the earwigs in your home, you’ll need to start focusing on the earwigs outside your home. Remember that this insect is attracted to moisture and light. Therefore, start by reducing the amount of light coming from your windows and doors. You can also switch to vapor yellow lights because they’re less attractive to most insects. Don’t use mercury vapor, white, or neon lights since they’ll make things worse. Spend time eliminating entry points to ensure that earwigs cannot enter your home. Sealing these holes is a good way to reduce the possibility of future infestations.
How Soon Can You Begin?
Contact us as soon as possible to set up an appointment. We can typically reach your home in 24 to 48 hours.
Are The Treatments Safe?
Our company uses safe solutions to eliminate earwig infestations. We use baits, natural products, and mechanical tools. In some cases, conventional products may be needed. If this is the case, you can count on us to use safe products. We only use EPA-registered products because we want to protect your clients and their loved ones. Our expert exterminators are trained extensively before being allowed to enter your home. To protect your loved ones, use our services.
Can I Stop Future Earwig Infestations?
You may not be able to stop earwig infestations, but you should try anyway. For starters, you’ll want to get rid of moist areas in your home. You’ll also want to seal all cracks and gaps to prevent the bugs from entering your home. Contact us to learn more about ways to prevent earwig infestations.
If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.