Occasional Invader

Earwig Control

Dark insects with distinctive pincers that seek moisture and shelter, occasionally invading Chicagoland homes during hot, dry weather.

Size

1/2 to 3/4 inch long

Color

Dark brown to black

Habitat

Moist, dark hiding spots

Threat Level

Low - Mostly Harmless

Earwig identification guide
1yr
Lifespan

Earwig Facts & Myths

Separating facts from fiction about these misunderstood insects and their distinctive pincers.

Physical Features

  • 1/2 to 3/4 inch long (12-19mm)
  • Dark brown to reddish-black color
  • Distinctive pincers (cerci) at rear
  • Elongated, flattened body
  • Short wing covers (rarely fly)

Behavior & Habits

  • Nocturnal (active at night)
  • Seek out moist, dark places
  • Omnivorous scavengers
  • Hide under objects during day
  • Use pincers for defense and mating

Debunking Myths

  • Do NOT crawl into ears
  • Pincers are rarely harmful to humans
  • Not aggressive toward people
  • Actually beneficial in gardens
  • Eat garden pests and decaying matter

Prevention & Exclusion

Moisture Elimination

  • • Fix leaky pipes and faucets
  • • Improve drainage around foundation
  • • Use fans in humid areas
  • • Remove standing water sources

Remove Hiding Spots

  • • Clear leaf litter and debris
  • • Remove mulch near foundation
  • • Trim vegetation touching house
  • • Store firewood away from structure

Natural Management

Simple Removal

  • • Vacuum or sweep up intruders
  • • Use newspaper traps (they hide under paper)
  • • Relocate to garden areas
  • • Most invaders die naturally indoors

Garden Benefit: Earwigs are actually beneficial in gardens! They eat aphids, mites, and other garden pests. They also help decompose organic matter.

When Control is Needed

  • • Large numbers entering homes
  • • Frequent sightings in living areas
  • • Damage to young garden plants
  • • Residents uncomfortable with presence

Professional Earwig Management

When earwig invasions become bothersome, our experts provide effective exclusion and reduction services for your Chicagoland property.

Entry Point Assessment

We identify how they're getting inside

Moisture Solutions

Address underlying moisture attractants

Habitat Modification

Reduce outdoor breeding and hiding areas