Facts & Information
What are Earwigs?
Earwigs are a common household pest in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. They have long, smooth bodies with pincer-like appendages at the tip of their abdomen. Despite the old wives’ tale, earwigs do not actually crawl into people’s ears and lay eggs. They are brown in color and ⅝ to 1 inch in length. Earwigs are nocturnal insects that feed on dead plants and insects.
Why Do I Have Them?
Earwigs prefer dark, damp environments and are often found outdoors underneath stones, logs, and mulch. They are known to invade homes and properties across Wisconsin. Earwigs seek food, moisture, and shelter by invading houses through foundation cracks. Once inside, these pests are usually found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Earwigs are also often brought indoors by accident on infested items, such as potted plants, lawn furniture, and firewood.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Despite the scary-looking pincers, earwigs are harmless insects. They can pinch you, but their pinchers are not strong enough to pierce human skin. Earwigs may become a nuisance and can leave behind stains if squished.
Treatment & Control
How Do I Get Rid of Earwigs?
Inspection
Earwig infestations are uncommon. If you are noticing a large number of earwigs, you might have a moisture problem in your house. A licensed pest exterminator will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify problem areas. Because every home is different, our technician will work with you to develop a customized action plan for your situation.
Treatment
Our pest management specialists will treat the exterior foundation, especially around doors, and interior spaces where they are active to rid your home of these pests.
Prevention
Earwigs are a common pest each year, especially during the summer and autumn. Our seasonal pest treatments will protect your home and family year-round against these critters. No contracts are required. We can also seal cracks and openings around the house for further protection.
Inspection
Earwig infestations are uncommon. If you are noticing a large number of earwigs, you might have a moisture problem in your house. A licensed pest exterminator will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify problem areas. Because every home is different, our technician will work with you to develop a customized action plan for your situation.
Treatment
Our pest management specialists will treat the exterior foundation, especially around doors, and interior spaces where they are active to rid your home of these pests.
Prevention
Earwigs are a common pest each year, especially during the summer and autumn. Our seasonal pest treatments will protect your home and family year-round against these critters. No contracts are required. We can also seal cracks and openings around the house for further protection.
How Do I Keep Earwigs Out of My House?
Preventing earwigs from invading your home can be a difficult task; however, you can take a few steps to help stop them. Eliminate moisture around your house by drying out damp areas, such as bathrooms and basements. Seal any cracks or crevices around your home. Trim back vegetation around the exterior of your house and maintain a well-kept lawn. Inspect firewood, lawn furniture, and potted plants before bringing these items indoors.