Santa Clarita Pest Control Experts Debunk Popular Earwig Myths
Contrary to popular jokes and misconceptions, earwigs do not crawl into our ears to lay eggs and feast on our brains. In truth, they are not aggressive insects and prefer to run and hide from humans whenever they can. Earwigs have a bad reputation due to their name and appearance: Think the ugly duckling more than Freddy Krueger.
Myths aside, earwigs are still unpleasant to encounter and can make their way into your home, giving you a bit of a scare. If you’re concerned about earwigs invading your home, contact the Santa Clarita pest control technicians at No Bugs Termite and Pest Control, Inc. Our experts provide year-round pest solutions for homes and businesses across the valley.
Are Earwigs Harmful to Humans?
Earwigs look dangerous because of the pinchers (forceps) at the end of their abdomen, but they are more likely to hide than pinch in self-defense. If you are the unfortunate victim of a pinch, you might suffer a small welt, but that is usually the extent of the damage. Earwigs are not venomous, and their pinches rarely break the skin.
What Attracts Earwigs in the Home?
If you find an earwig inside your home, it is typically because they got there by mistake. Earwigs prefer to live in damp and dark places, which is a very different environment than the light and airy indoor living space. Their diet consists of decaying vegetation, mulch, and yard waste, but they can also eat invertebrate insects.
3 Fun Facts About Earwigs
Earwigs are surprisingly interesting little bugs. You might be able to find clusters of them when you lift up rocks or move outside pots around. Here are a few fun facts that might be new to you!
- Earwigs can be stinky. They expel a foul-smelling odor consisting of a chemical compound to defend against predators.
- Earwigs are protective parents. They will defend their eggs and newly hatched young for about a month before letting them roam free.
- Earwigs have wings. They have fully functional wings but rarely use them, preferring to move on the ground.
Call No Bugs & Keep the Bugs Away!
Protect your family and home from earwigs and other pests with regular pest control services from the Santa Clarita pest control experts at No Bugs. Our team knows what to look for and how to prevent home invasions from pests like earwigs. We can help you create a barrier between your home and your yard, so you don’t have to worry about bugs sneaking in on purpose or by mistake.
