Earwig Control in Traverse City, MI: All About Earwigs and How to Prevent Them
Finding earwigs crawling all over your home can be quite unsettling and honestly downright gross.
You might be wondering first and foremost, are earwigs dangerous? Despite their appearance, earwigs are more of a nuisance than a threat to humans. However, it is important to prevent them from invading your home, not just for peace of mind but also to avoid any potential damage they may cause.
Let’s answer some of your most common questions about earwigs and explore how to prevent and get rid of earwigs in your home.
What are Earwigs?
Why are Earwigs called Earwigs?
Do Earwigs Bite?
Are Earwigs Harmful?
How to Get Rid of Earwigs in My House
What are Earwigs?
Ever spotted those creepy-looking bugs with pinchers on their behinds scurrying around your garden or maybe even inside your home? Those are earwigs! They’re small insects, about half an inch to an inch long, usually dark brown or black, and they’ve got pincer-like growths on their rear end that make them look a bit intimidating.
During the day, earwigs hang out in dark, damp spots, like under rocks, mulch, or in tree bark. They’re night owls, usually coming out after dark to chow down on plants, insects, and other organic food they can find. They typically sneak indoors looking for cozy spots to avoid extreme weather.
Why are Earwigs Called Earwigs?
Ever wondered why these little bugs are called earwigs? Many years ago, people believed these insects had the habit of crawling into people’s ears while they slept…creepy, right?
The name earwig actually comes from Old English, translating directly to ear beetle or insect. This name and old belief led to the misconception that earwigs were dangerous pests that could burrow into ears, though in reality, they don’t seek out human ears at all.
Do Earwigs Bite?
The good news is that while earwigs do have pincers at the end of their abdomen, they are not aggressive towards humans and do not actively seek out biting people. The pincers are primarily used for defense, capturing prey, or mating rituals.
In rare cases, if handled or disturbed, an earwig may use its pincers in self-defense, which could result in an inch. However, their pincers are not strong enough to cause any harm beyond a slight discomfort.
Are Earwigs Harmful?
Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, earwigs are not generally harmful to humans. They do not sting and are not venomous. As stated above, earwigs are not aggressive toward humans and will not seek out an interaction to bite people.
In terms of damage, earwigs are considered more of a nuisance pest than a serious threat. They nibble on plants and can be found indoors, however, they do not cause structural damage to homes or transmit diseases.
How to Get Rid of Earwigs in My House
Dealing with earwigs inside your home can be unsettling, but thankfully, there are effective ways to prevent them from becoming a nuisance and get rid of them if they have already made themselves comfortable. At the beginning of each Spring season, it is wise to focus your efforts on pest prevention, as it is much easier to prevent bugs like earwigs from invading than it is to eliminate them after they have established themselves in your home.
Prevention Tips:
- Seal Entry Points: Earwigs can slip through tiny cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundation walls. Seal these entry points by using caulk or weather stripping to keep them out.
- Reduce Moisture: Earwigs are attracted to damp areas. Ensure your home’s interior is well-ventilated and dry.
- Remove Debris: Clear away built up mulch, leaves, and other material away from your home’s foundation. These materials provide hiding spots and attract earwigs closer to your house.
Getting Rid of Earwigs:
- Manual Removal: If you spot earwigs indoors, gently vacuum them up or use a broom to sweep them away. Dispose of them promptly.
- Natural Repellents: Diatomaceous earth or boric acid can sometimes be effective when attempting ot naturally repel earwigs. Sprinkle either of these substances in areas where earwigs are present inside your home like baseboards or corners.
- Try Store-Bought Insecticide: While store-bought insecticide is an option, we typically do not recommend it. The products sold at your local hardware store typically do not work as effectively as professional-grade products and applying too much product can be dangerous.
- Professional Pest Control: For a more persistent problem, it is wise to contact a professional pest service. They can provide targeted and effective treatments to eliminate earwigs from your home.
Partnering with a Professional Pest Control Team
Finding earwigs inside your home can be quite disturbing. While they aren’t dangerous, preventing them from invading your living space is crucial to maintaining comfort and cleanliness.
Perimeter pest control is the best solution for not only keeping earwigs at bay, but for also eliminating various other pests such as ants, spiders, and more. This long-lasting method creates a protective barrier around your home, preventing pests from approaching in the first place.
It can be frustrating to waste time and money applying a product that doesn’t solve your bug problem. At Green Team, we specialize in perimeter pest control strategies that are far more effective than store-bought products. Our experts can suggest products that will safeguard your home against earwigs and other pests year-round.
Want protect your home from an earwig invasion? Fill out our contact form today!
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