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Earwigs.

Earwigs may look intimidating with their pincers, but they don’t crawl into ears as the myth suggests. While harmless, they can become a nuisance indoors. Here’s what you need to know about these pests and how to get rid of earwigs in your North Carolina home or business.

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Earwig basics.

Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects featuring pincers at the end of their bodies. There are 22 species of earwigs in the U.S. and a female can lay 20-50 eggs in one or two broods per season. Adult earwigs are red-brown to black in color, and measure just over ½ inch long. They don’t spread disease, and their pincers are rarely strong enough to break the skin.

Why earwigs are a problem.

These pests are drawn to moisture and often hide in damp, dark places, like under mulch, leaf piles, firewood or inside basements and bathrooms. Earwigs are omnivorous and can feed on smaller insects such as aphids and mites found in these favored places. 

They’re also natural decomposers. By consuming decaying leaves, mulch and organic matter, earwigs help recycle nutrients back into the soil.

Their penchant for eating decaying organic matter can make them a problem for gardens and landscapes. When their populations grow, earwigs shift from a minor annoyance to a concern that calls for professional control.

Homeowners are most likely to notice earwigs during warm, humid months when they are most active. As temperatures drop, earwigs look for protected areas to survive, which may drive them indoors.

Signs of an earwig infestation.

Because earwigs are nocturnal and prefer dark, damp hiding places, an infestation can sometimes go unnoticed until their numbers grow. Watch for these common signs:

  • Frequent indoor sightings: Spotting earwigs in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms or basements is a sure sign of an infestation.
  • Moisture clusters: Earwigs are drawn to damp areas. Call a professional if you see groups of these pests under sinks, around drains or in crawl spaces that are prone to moisture.
  • Unpleasant odor: Earwigs can release a yellowish-brown secretion with a foul smell, which may be noticeable in heavy infestations.

If you’re regularly finding these creepy crawlers around your home, chances are you’re dealing with an earwig infestation that requires more than just DIY cleanup. Professional earwig pest control can eliminate the pests and prevent them from returning.

Earwig pest control.

If you spot an earwig in your home or business, you can take steps to prevent them from becoming an issue. Fix any leaks, remove clutter and seal potential entry points around doors and windows. 

DIY techniques may help in the short term, but they may not be enough for lasting control. A pest control specialist can offer professional solutions to eliminate concerns and provide ongoing prevention strategies.

Why choose Terminix Triad.

For more than 90 years, Terminix Triad has been the trusted choice for pest protection in North Carolina. As a family-owned company, we understand the unique challenges of our region and the importance of safeguarding homes and businesses in our area. 

Our pest professionals pair local knowledge with a commitment to exceptional care to deliver lasting results.

Fast, reliable earwig control starts here.

Earwigs don’t belong in your home or business. Get protection from our Triad team. Find a pest control package that’s right for you or speak with an expert at 877-372-9696 to request your free quote for comprehensive earwig control.

Call now
(877) 372-9696

or request your free quote

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*Email/SMS opt-in details listed below In need of customer support? Contact us here.