Earwigs

How Earwigs Enter Homes

Earwigs typically live outdoors, but they are opportunistic when it comes to finding shelter indoors. The most common reasons for earwigs entering homes are excessive rain, drought, or a sudden drop in temperature which forces them to seek a more stable environment. Here are some common ways they might get inside:

• Cracks and Gaps: Earwigs can easily enter through small cracks and crevices in a home’s foundation, walls, or around doors and windows. Even tiny gaps in weatherstripping or poorly sealed window frames can serve as entry points.
• Under Doors: They are often attracted to moist, dark places, and if a door is not properly sealed at the bottom, earwigs may slip inside.
• Through Vents and Utility Openings: Vents, especially those leading to basements or attics, are potential entry points. Openings where pipes, cables, or other utilities enter the home can also serve as easy access.

Detecting an Earwig Infestation

Earwig infestations are typically not as harmful as other pest problems, but they can still be concerning due to the sheer number of insects. Detecting an infestation early can help prevent them from spreading throughout your home. Here are some signs that you may have an earwig problem:

1. Visible Insects: The most obvious sign of an earwig infestation is seeing the insects themselves. You may spot them in areas such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, or other damp spaces in the home. They tend to be nocturnal, so you’re more likely to notice them at night.
2. Damaged Plants: If you have indoor plants, earwigs might be feeding on them. They leave small, ragged holes in leaves or chew on stems, particularly in areas with high moisture content.
3. Droppings and Debris: Earwig droppings are small, dark, and pellet-like, similar to other small insects. Finding clusters of these near baseboards or around window sills could indicate an infestation.
4. Unpleasant Odor: While earwigs are generally not known for causing smells, large infestations can result in a musty odor due to their secretions and waste, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

How Pest Control Experts Remove Earwigs

If you suspect an earwig infestation, contacting a professional pest control service is a highly effective solution. Here's how experts typically handle the problem:

• Sealing Entry Points: Once entry points are identified, pest control experts will seal cracks, gaps, and other openings that earwigs could use to enter the home. This might involve caulking windows and doors, applying weatherstripping, or installing door sweeps.
• Moisture Control: Earwigs are drawn to damp areas, so professionals often recommend solutions to reduce moisture in and around the home. This could involve fixing leaky pipes, improving ventilation in crawl spaces, or installing dehumidifiers in basements.
• Chemical Treatments: If the infestation is severe, pest control experts may apply targeted insecticides or bait traps around the home’s perimeter and in areas where earwigs are most active. These treatments are typically safe for pets and children when applied professionally.
• Ongoing Prevention: Pest control professionals can also provide guidance on preventing future infestations, including advice on landscaping modifications, such as reducing mulch depth or trimming back overgrown shrubs and plants that may be harboring earwigs.