Are Earwigs In Gilbert Dangerous?

Earwigs commonly found in Gilbert are European earwigs. European earwigs were first introduced into the United States in the early 1900s and have since become somewhat of a nuisance for homeowners throughout the country. Earwigs are common pests in Phoenix. They roughly ? inch long, have long, flat bodies, and are reddish-brown in color. They have antennae and wings but are most commonly recognized by the pair of pincers located at the base of their abdomen.

Earwigs are most content living outdoors in cool, damp locations. They are nocturnal creatures, coming out of their hiding spots at night to feed on decaying debris and sometimes crops of fresh fruit and vegetables. Like most insects, if they can find access into your home, they will take it, gravitating towards areas of moisture like under sinks and in basements and crawlspaces.

The Truth About Earwigs

For decades earwigs have been thought to be something they are not because of an old wives tale. It has been widely believed that earwigs climb into people’s ears while they sleep, hence their name, creating fear for these menacing-looking insects. The truth is earwigs are no different from any other insects that scurry about while you sleep, none of which are likely to enter your ear canal and feed on your brain. This is nothing but a myth.

While earwigs are not dangerous as many have believed them to be, nor do they carry disease, they are, in fact, nuisance pests. As mentioned above, earwigs have a set of pincers that they use when threatened. These pincers can pack a painful sting but are otherwise not poisonous or dangerous. Earwigs are also known for the foul odor that they expel when threatened, making extermination a stinky affair.

Six Tips On How To Prevent Earwigs In & Around Your Gilbert Home

While earwigs may not be dangerous to you and your family, they are still not the houseguest you want around. Knowing what attracts earwigs to your home and property is crucial to maintaining an earwig-free environment. Yard maintenance is critical to cutting down on the chance of an earwig infestation, as are regular home inspections outside and in.

Follow these six tips to reduce your chances of developing an earwig problem at your Gilbert home:

1. Clean Up Yard Debris

Earwigs love rotting, decaying organic material. Keeping your yard clear of leaves, rotting wood, and plant materials will help deter earwigs from your property.

2. Address Moisture Issues Around Your Yard

Empty birdbaths regularly and keep toys and other items picked up that can collect rainwater.

3. Check For Areas Of Easy Access

Seal up any cracks or gaps that earwigs could use to gain access into your home. Use caulking on cracks and cover vents with a well-fitting cap.

4. Inspect Doors & Windows

Install weather stripping around doors and windows to ensure a proper seal. Replace worn and torn screens as soon as possible.

5. Address Moisture Issues Inside Your Home

Use a dehumidifier where necessary and address any water leaks under sinks and around plumbing fixtures.

6. Reduce Clutter Inside Your Home

Earwigs prefer a cluttered outdoor environment but can also go undetected in an indoor environment if it provides ample space to hide.

Contact What’s Bugging You Pest Control For Total Earwig Control

Getting rid of any pest infestation can be stressful and time-consuming, not to mention expensive while yielding little results. The best line of defense against earwigs is What’s Bugging You Pest Control. We offer both residential pest control as well as commercial pest management services. Give us a call today, and let us stop what’s bugging you!