Earwig
Despite its name and threatening appearance, the common earwig is a harmless and interesting creature. Earwigs can be found in damp crevices in houses, gardens and woodland where they feed on decaying plant and animal matter and other insects. Their pincers can give a small nip to a human but they are normally used to scare away predators and to help them tuck their wings away. It was once commonly believed that earwigs would burrow into people's ears at night and lay eggs in their brains. In fact the story still circulates as an urban myth. Earwigs are not parasitic and would rather lay their eggs under a stone. The best method of avoiding a plague of earwigs is to deny them suitable living conditions close to the house. Heavy plant growth and compost heaps near to the house provide excellent habitats for them. Chemical control of earwigs is not necessary in the majority of cases.
Best Methods for Controlling your Pest
DIY or The Professionals?
- Easy DIY control for earwigs.
Control options:
- where they are in relatively dry conditions, lightly dust the infested area with non-toxic Agrodust
- where in damp conditions spray with Aquablast Bug Spray
- spraying with soapy water also works
- if possible remove the earwig gently back into the garden
Use pesticides safely and always read and understand the label
