Table of Contents
What Is An Earwig?
An earwig is a member of the Dermaptera family, which is characterized by its long, slender body and “cerci,” appendages or pincers. The earwig’s cerci are similar to medical forceps, as they open and close practically the same way. They utilize their cerci to ward off prey, build nests, and forage for food. The male’s cerci are slightly more curved and bigger than the female’s. They measure about a third of the earwig’s body. Some earwigs have wings while others are wingless. The winged earwig has two sets of membranous wings that are rarely utilized for flying. The body is brownish/reddish, measuring about ¼ inch in length, with the exception of the Saint Helena giant earwig, which is about 2-1/2 inches longer than the others. Scientists have identified approximately 900 members of the Dermaptera family. Sightings are more often reported in temperate climates than anywhere else. The term “earwig” derives from a myth that the insect burrowed in someone’s brain and laid eggs.
Why Is My Home Infested With Earwigs?
It is fairly simple really because earwigs are like other small insects that migrate indoors before winter sets in. It is partial to warm, dark climates like those in the attic, basement, and crawlspace. They find access points around windows, doors, plumbing pipes, and electrical wiring that lead from the outside to the inside of the home. They spend their days resting and nights searching for shelter, foraging for food, and building nests due to their nocturnal instincts. Sightings are generally in humid, dark, and warm areas.
Are Earwig Infestations Harmful To Humans And Pets?
Earwigs are more of a nuisance pest than a health risk to humans or animals. However, they leave devastation in their paths, especially in gardens. Their cerci are not dangerous because they are not strong enough to pierce human or animal skin. They are non-venomous, making them even less harmful. With this said, the earwig does pose some risk to indoor and outdoor plants. They can make things complicated for commercial farmers and gardeners, as well as recreational gardeners.
How To Eradicate Earwig Infestations?
Eradicating an earwig infestation is a combined effort, as every household member must be on board with an effective pest control plan. Since the earwig is nocturnal, sightings are sketchy since most humans sleep at night and stay awake during the day. To jumpstart the pest control effort, we ask that the customer eliminate potential exterior-to-interior access points, the transition from mercury vapor lighting to sodium vapor lighting, and removing plants outdoors whenever possible.
When Should I Expect The Exterminator To Arrive At My Home?
Our extermination team works around the clock to combat earwig infestations by delivering the quickest response in the industry. When you submit a request for a visual pest inspection or consultation, we will start processing it immediately. The exterminator should be dispatched out to your home within 24 to 48 hours of the initial request.
Is Earwig Insecticide Harmful To The Environment?
Chemical-based insecticides and pesticides contain toxic ingredients that pose some risks to the environment. Thanks to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the risks have been minimized to the point that they are almost non-existent. The EPA has strict regulations when it comes to the development and sale of chemical-based pest control products. Our pest control arsenal does not contain anything other than those that have been approved by the EPA. But, we take pesticide safety to the next level by heeding the manufacturer’s storage, handling, and administration recommendations.
Is It Possible To Prevent Future Earwig Infestations?
Earwig infestations are a major problem in Miami, Florida for some property owners. Commercial farmers and gardeners are the hardest hit by these tiny insects, followed by homeowners, tenants, and landlords. Once your home is deemed earwig-infested, the odds of a future problem increase significantly. But, with our help, we can build a pest barrier around the perimeter of your home that is guaranteed to be indestructible. We will start by sealing off all potential access points utilizing caulk and other waterproof sealants. From here, we ask that the client work on improving the humidity in their basements, crawlspaces, and other problematic areas. We will not stop until your home is fully protected against future earwig infestations.
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