Earwig (Forficula auricularia) – Identification, Life Cycle, Habits and Control

The European Earwig (Forficula auricularia) is a common insect found throughout the United Kingdom. Recognised by its elongated body and distinctive pincers at the end of its abdomen, the earwig is frequently encountered in gardens, beneath stones, among leaf litter and occasionally inside buildings.

Despite its intimidating appearance, the earwig is generally harmless to humans. Its pincers are mainly used for defence and other natural behaviours, rather than attacking people. Earwigs do not normally bite or sting, and they are not known to spread diseases to humans.

Earwigs are primarily outdoor insects that prefer damp, sheltered environments. During the day, they hide beneath bark, garden debris, plant pots and other protected surfaces. At night, they emerge to feed on plant material, decaying organic matter and small insects.

Although earwigs can damage certain flowers and young plants, they also benefit gardens by feeding on aphids and other small invertebrates. Their presence outdoors does not automatically indicate a pest problem.

However, repeated sightings inside a property may indicate suitable hiding places, excess moisture or openings that allow insects to enter. Youngs Pest Control provides professional pest control services for homeowners, landlords and businesses experiencing unwanted insect activity.

Earwig – Quick Facts

Earwig Taxonomy and Classification

The European Earwig belongs to the order Dermaptera, a group of insects characterised by their distinctive abdominal pincers and elongated bodies.

Earwigs have existed for millions of years, with ancient relatives dating back to the Jurassic period. Their unusual pincers, folding wings and parental care distinguish them from many other insect groups.

How to Identify an Earwig

Earwigs are relatively easy to recognise because of the pair of forceps-like appendages at the rear of their bodies.

Body Size

Adult European Earwigs usually measure approximately 12–15 mm in length, although size can vary between individuals.

Body Colour

The body is generally dark brown to reddish-brown, with some lighter colouring on the legs and other body parts.

Flattened Body

Earwigs have long, narrow, flattened bodies that allow them to move into tight cracks and sheltered spaces.

Abdominal Pincers

The most recognisable feature is the pair of pincers, also called cerci, at the end of the abdomen.

Long Antennae

Earwigs possess long, segmented antennae that help them explore their surroundings.

Short Forewings

The short, leathery forewings cover a pair of intricately folded hindwings.

Flexible Abdomen

The abdomen is flexible, allowing an earwig to raise its pincers when threatened.

The presence of distinctive abdominal pincers is usually the easiest way to distinguish an earwig from other small household insects.

Male vs Female Earwigs – What Is the Difference?

Male and female European Earwigs look similar, but the shape of their pincers often differs.

Male Earwigs

Males generally have more strongly curved pincers. These may be used during interactions with other earwigs and in mating behaviour.

Female Earwigs

Females usually have straighter, more parallel pincers.

These differences are most noticeable in adults. Young earwigs have smaller pincers that become more developed as they mature.

Why Do Earwigs Have Pincers?

Earwig pincers serve several purposes and are an important adaptation to their environment.

• Defence: Earwigs may raise their pincers when threatened.
• Prey handling: The pincers can help with certain feeding behaviours.
• Mating: They play a role in interactions between males and females.
• Competition: Male earwigs may use their pincers during encounters with other males.

Although the pincers can look alarming, they are not venomous and are generally unable to cause significant injury to humans.

Can Earwigs Fly?

Yes. European Earwigs possess wings, although they rarely use them for flight.

Their short forewings protect larger, membranous hindwings that are folded beneath them.

These hindwings have a complex folding arrangement that allows them to fit into a surprisingly small space.

Despite this adaptation, earwigs usually move by crawling and are far more likely to be seen running across the ground than flying.

Earwig vs Rove Beetle

Earwigs are sometimes confused with rove beetles because both have elongated bodies and relatively short wing covers.

The presence of forceps-like pincers is the clearest distinguishing feature of an earwig.

Earwig vs Cockroach

Small cockroaches may occasionally be mistaken for earwigs because both can be brown, fast-moving insects.

However, earwigs have a longer, narrower body and prominent pincers at the rear.

Cockroaches generally have broader, oval bodies and do not possess the same forceps-like structures.

Correct identification matters because cockroach infestations can have very different hygiene implications and treatment requirements.

Earwig Life Cycle and Reproduction

European Earwigs undergo incomplete metamorphosis, developing through three main stages: egg, nymph and adult.

Unlike butterflies and beetles, earwigs do not have a pupal stage.

1. Egg Stage

Female earwigs lay clusters of small eggs within sheltered nests, usually in soil or another protected location.

Egg laying may occur during colder months or in spring, depending on seasonal conditions.

The female remains with the eggs, guarding and cleaning them.

2. Nymph Stage

After hatching, young earwigs emerge as nymphs.

They resemble smaller, paler versions of adult earwigs and already possess developing abdominal pincers.

Nymphs grow through several moults, shedding their outer covering as they increase in size.

3. Adult Stage

After completing their final moult, earwigs become sexually mature adults.

Adults feed, seek shelter and reproduce when conditions are suitable.

Many European Earwigs survive through winter in protected locations before becoming more active as temperatures rise.

Earwig Development Stages

The speed of development depends on temperature, food availability and other environmental conditions.

Do Earwigs Look After Their Young?

Yes. One of the most unusual features of European Earwig behaviour is maternal care.

Female earwigs remain with their eggs and actively protect them from predators and environmental threats.

They also clean the eggs, helping reduce the risk of fungal growth.

After hatching, the female may continue caring for the young nymphs until they become more independent.

This level of parental care is relatively uncommon among insects and is an important part of earwig biology.

Where Do Earwigs Live?

Earwigs are primarily outdoor insects that favour damp, sheltered places.

Common habitats include:

Under Stones and Logs

These locations provide darkness, protection and moisture during daylight hours.

Garden Beds

Earwigs shelter among plants, soil and organic material.

Leaf Litter

Fallen leaves provide humid conditions and access to decaying plant matter.

Mulch

Mulched areas offer sheltered spaces where earwigs can avoid drying out.

Compost Heaps

Compost provides moisture, organic food sources and numerous hiding places.

Wood Piles

Earwigs may shelter beneath stacked timber or within gaps between logs.

Plant Pots

Upturned pots and containers can provide dark, protected resting places.

Cracks and Crevices

Small gaps in outdoor structures or around buildings can offer temporary shelter.

Earwigs may occasionally enter buildings when searching for suitable conditions.

Why Do Earwigs Prefer Damp Places?

Earwigs are vulnerable to drying out and therefore favour environments with relatively high humidity.

Damp soil, leaf litter and sheltered garden debris help them retain moisture.

During hot or dry weather, earwigs may move into cooler, more humid spaces.

This behaviour can sometimes bring them closer to houses, sheds and other buildings.

Inside properties, bathrooms, utility rooms and other damp areas may provide temporary shelter.

Are Earwigs Nocturnal?

Yes. European Earwigs are primarily active at night.

During daylight hours, they usually remain hidden beneath stones, bark, leaves and other sheltered surfaces.

At night, they emerge to search for food and move between suitable habitats.

This behaviour helps reduce exposure to predators and prevents excessive moisture loss.

It also explains why earwigs may be difficult to locate during the day, even when they are present in a garden.

What Do Earwigs Eat?

Earwigs are omnivorous insects, meaning they feed on both plant and animal material.

Their varied diet includes:

• Decaying plant matter
• Soft leaves
• Flower petals
• Fruit
• Young seedlings
• Aphids
• Other small insects
• Organic debris

This flexible feeding behaviour allows earwigs to survive in a wide range of outdoor environments.

It also means they can be both beneficial and troublesome in gardens, depending on what they are feeding on.

Are Earwigs Good for Gardens?

Earwigs can be beneficial garden insects because they feed on aphids and other small invertebrates.

They may help reduce aphid populations on certain plants, particularly fruit trees.

Their feeding on decaying organic material also contributes to the breakdown and recycling of plant matter.

However, earwigs may occasionally damage flower petals, young leaves and soft fruits.

For this reason, their impact depends on the garden environment and the plants involved.

The Royal Horticultural Society’s guidance on earwigs explains their beneficial role in controlling aphids and offers practical advice for managing damage to ornamental plants.

Can Earwigs Damage Garden Plants?

Yes. Earwigs may feed on tender plant material, particularly flowers, seedlings and soft leaves.

Plants that may be affected include:

• Dahlias
• Chrysanthemums
• Clematis
• Young vegetable plants
• Soft fruits
• Other tender flowering plants

Feeding damage may appear as irregular holes or ragged edges on petals and leaves.

However, similar damage can be caused by slugs, caterpillars and other garden insects.

Checking affected plants after dark can help determine whether earwigs are responsible.

Do Earwigs Eat Aphids?

Yes. Earwigs are natural predators of aphids and can help reduce their numbers in gardens.

They may be particularly useful around fruit trees and shrubs where aphids are present.

This beneficial feeding behaviour is one reason why earwigs should not automatically be treated as pests when found outdoors.

Where earwigs are not causing significant damage, leaving them undisturbed can help maintain the natural balance of garden insects.

Why Are Earwigs Coming Into My House?

Earwigs usually enter homes accidentally rather than deliberately establishing indoor infestations.

They may move indoors while searching for moisture, shelter or suitable hiding places.

Common contributing factors include:

• Gaps beneath external doors
• Open windows
• Cracks around door frames
• Openings around pipework
• Damp areas close to external walls
• Leaf litter and garden debris against the property
• Plant pots and containers near entrances
• Changes in outdoor temperature or moisture conditions

Repeated sightings may indicate that the property has accessible entry points or suitable sheltered conditions nearby.

Where Do Earwigs Hide Inside Houses?

When earwigs enter buildings, they tend to seek dark, sheltered locations.

Bathrooms

Moisture and small gaps around fixtures may provide temporary hiding places.

Utility Rooms

Areas containing washing machines, sinks or pipework may offer suitable conditions.

Basements and Cellars

Cool, humid spaces may attract earwigs entering from outside.

Behind Skirting Boards

Small gaps along walls can provide shelter.

Under Furniture

Dark spaces near floors may allow earwigs to remain concealed during the day.

Near External Doors

Earwigs may shelter close to the point where they entered the property.

Although they may hide indoors temporarily, earwigs generally prefer outdoor environments.

Can Earwigs Infest a House?

Earwigs can occasionally appear in large numbers inside a property, but they do not normally establish permanent indoor breeding populations.

Most indoor sightings result from insects moving in from surrounding gardens or other outdoor habitats.

Where large numbers are repeatedly found, it is worth investigating dampness, sheltered areas and potential entry points.

Addressing these conditions is usually more important than treating individual insects.

What Are the Signs of an Earwig Problem?

Earwigs do not normally cause the same type of indoor infestation as cockroaches or bed bugs.

However, recurring activity can become a nuisance.

Common signs include:

• Repeated sightings: Earwigs appearing in bathrooms, kitchens or utility rooms.
• Night-time activity: Insects crawling across floors or surfaces after dark.
• Groups in sheltered areas: Several earwigs found beneath pots, stones or garden debris.
• Plant damage: Irregular holes in flowers and young leaves.
• Activity near entrances: Earwigs gathering around doors and external walls.
• Persistent dampness: Moist conditions that may encourage insects to remain nearby.

These signs can help identify where earwigs are active and which conditions may be attracting them.

Are Earwigs Dangerous to Humans?

Earwigs are generally harmless to people.

They are not known to transmit diseases to humans and are not considered a significant public health pest.

Although their pincers can appear threatening, they are primarily defensive structures.

An earwig may attempt to pinch if handled or trapped, but this is unlikely to cause serious injury.

Earwigs are mainly a nuisance when they appear repeatedly inside buildings.

Do Earwigs Bite or Sting?

Earwigs do not have a venomous sting.

They possess chewing mouthparts, but biting people is not part of their normal behaviour.

When threatened, an earwig may raise its abdomen and attempt to use its pincers defensively.

A pinch may occasionally be felt, but it is generally minor.

Handling earwigs is unnecessary and should be avoided where possible.

Do Earwigs Crawl Into People’s Ears?

Despite the name, earwigs do not seek out human ears and do not lay eggs inside them.

The belief that earwigs deliberately enter ears is a longstanding myth.

Like many small insects, an earwig could accidentally enter an unusual confined space, but this is not normal behaviour.

Earwigs are far more interested in sheltered outdoor habitats than people.

Do Earwigs Damage Furniture or Buildings?

Earwigs do not normally damage timber, furniture, wiring or structural materials.

They are not wood-boring insects and do not feed on building materials in the way that some beetle larvae do.

Their main indoor impact is the inconvenience of finding them in living or working spaces.

If earwigs are repeatedly appearing near damp walls or floors, the moisture problem itself may require investigation.

Why Are There So Many Earwigs in My Garden?

Large numbers of earwigs may occur where moisture, food and shelter are readily available.

Gardens containing thick mulch, compost heaps, dense vegetation and piles of organic debris can provide suitable conditions.

Earwigs may also gather together beneath stones, plant pots and other sheltered objects during the day.

Finding several earwigs in one location does not necessarily mean there is an infestation requiring treatment.

Where they are causing significant damage to plants, targeted garden management may be appropriate.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs in the House

Managing indoor earwig activity usually involves removing the insects already present and reducing the conditions that allow more to enter.

1. Identify Entry Points

Inspect external doors, windows, pipe openings and gaps around the building.

2. Reduce Excess Moisture

Investigate leaks, condensation and other sources of dampness.

3. Remove Indoor Earwigs

Individual earwigs can usually be collected or vacuumed and removed from the property.

4. Clear Nearby Garden Debris

Move unnecessary piles of leaves, timber and other sheltered materials away from external walls.

5. Improve Door and Window Seals

Fit or repair suitable seals and close accessible gaps.

6. Check Plant Pots and Containers

Inspect outdoor items before bringing them indoors.

7. Monitor Activity

Record where earwigs continue appearing to help identify the source.

8. Seek Professional Advice

If large numbers persist despite preventive measures, professional assessment may help identify contributing conditions.

How to Control Earwigs in the Garden

Because earwigs can be beneficial predators, garden control should focus on areas where they are causing noticeable damage.

Useful measures include:

• Inspect damaged flowers after dark to confirm earwig activity.
• Remove excessive debris immediately around vulnerable plants where appropriate.
• Check beneath pots and containers for groups of earwigs.
• Use suitable non-chemical traps to monitor activity.
• Protect particularly vulnerable seedlings.
• Avoid unnecessary insecticide use.
• Retain beneficial earwig populations where they help control aphids.

Upturned flower pots loosely filled with straw or similar material can provide temporary shelters for earwigs, allowing them to be collected from areas where they are damaging ornamental plants.

However, these same shelters may be useful for encouraging earwigs where aphid control is desirable.

How to Prevent Earwigs Entering Your Property

Reducing access points and excessive moisture can help limit unwanted indoor earwig activity.

• Seal accessible cracks around external doors and windows.
• Fit suitable door brushes or weather seals.
• Repair leaking pipes and investigate dampness.
• Improve ventilation in persistently humid rooms.
• Keep unnecessary garden debris away from external walls.
• Check firewood before bringing it indoors.
• Inspect plant pots and outdoor furniture.
• Maintain drainage around the property.
• Monitor recurring activity near entrances.
• Seek professional advice when the problem persists.

These measures can also help reduce access for several other moisture-seeking household insects.

Do Earwigs Disappear in Winter?

Earwig activity usually decreases during colder weather.

Adults often seek protected locations in soil or other sheltered areas where they can survive unfavourable conditions.

They may become active again when temperatures rise.

Because seasonal conditions influence their behaviour, sightings can vary considerably throughout the year.

Natural Predators of Earwigs

Earwigs form part of the natural food chain and are eaten by several animals.

Common predators include:

• Birds
• Frogs
• Toads
• Spiders
• Ground beetles
• Small mammals

These predators help regulate earwig populations in gardens and other outdoor habitats.

Earwigs also contribute to the recycling of organic matter through their scavenging behaviour.

Professional Earwig Pest Control

Most earwig sightings do not require insecticide treatment.

However, repeated indoor activity or large numbers affecting a commercial property may justify a professional inspection.

Youngs Pest Control provides pest identification, inspection and control services to help determine the source of unwanted insect activity.

1. Inspection and Assessment

We assess where the insects are appearing and consider moisture conditions, outdoor harbourage and possible entry points.

2. Pest Identification

Correct identification helps distinguish earwigs from cockroaches, beetles and other insects that may require different management.

3. Targeted Pest Management

Where intervention is appropriate, the approach is selected according to the circumstances found during inspection.

4. Follow-Up and Prevention Advice

We provide practical guidance on reducing shelter, moisture and access points that may contribute to recurring activity.

Environmental improvements are often the most important part of managing earwigs over the longer term.

Earwigs in Commercial Properties

Although earwigs are not usually associated with serious hygiene risks, repeated sightings can be unwelcome in commercial premises.

Restaurants and Hospitality

Earwigs may occasionally enter through external doors or arrive with outdoor items and deliveries.

Hotels and Guest Accommodation

Insects appearing in bathrooms or bedrooms can concern guests, even when they are harmless.

Garden Centres

Earwigs may be present around plants, compost, pots and damp storage areas.

Warehouses and Storage Areas

Open doors, stored materials and sheltered external areas can allow occasional insect entry.

Offices and Commercial Buildings

Repeated sightings may indicate entry points or moisture conditions requiring attention.

Professional assessment can help determine whether the activity is occasional or associated with a recurring environmental problem.

Earwig Pest Control Across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside

Youngs Pest Control is a family-run pest management company with over 35 years of experience, helping homeowners, landlords and businesses manage unwanted pests throughout the North West.

We provide professional pest control services across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside.

Whether earwigs are appearing repeatedly in bathrooms, gathering around external doors or causing concern in a commercial building, identifying the conditions attracting them is an important first step.

Our team can advise on suitable management measures and ways to reduce recurring insect activity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Earwigs

What is an earwig?

An earwig is an insect belonging to the order Dermaptera, recognised by the pincers at the end of its abdomen.

What is the scientific name of the European Earwig?

Its scientific name is Forficula auricularia.

What do earwigs look like?

They are elongated, brown insects with long antennae and distinctive rear pincers.

How big are earwigs?

Adult European Earwigs usually measure approximately 12–15 mm.

Are earwigs dangerous?

No. Earwigs are generally harmless to humans and are not known to transmit diseases.

Do earwigs bite?

They rarely bite people and do not normally behave aggressively towards humans.

Can earwigs pinch you?

They may use their pincers defensively if handled, but serious injury is unlikely.

Do earwigs have venom?

No. Earwigs do not have venomous stings.

Do earwigs crawl into ears?

They do not deliberately seek human ears, and the belief that they lay eggs inside them is a myth.

Can earwigs fly?

Yes, although they rarely fly and usually move by crawling.

Are earwigs nocturnal?

Yes. They are most active at night and hide during the day.

Where do earwigs live?

They favour damp, sheltered locations such as leaf litter, soil, mulch and spaces beneath stones.

Why are earwigs in my bathroom?

Bathrooms may provide moisture and sheltered gaps, particularly when earwigs enter from outside.

Can earwigs infest a house?

Large numbers may occasionally enter, but permanent indoor breeding populations are uncommon.

Do earwigs lay eggs indoors?

They usually lay eggs in sheltered soil nests rather than ordinary indoor living spaces.

What do earwigs eat?

They feed on plant material, decaying organic matter, aphids and other small insects.

Are earwigs good for gardens?

They can be beneficial because they feed on aphids and help break down organic material.

Do earwigs damage plants?

They may feed on flowers, seedlings and soft leaves, occasionally causing visible damage.

Do earwigs eat wood?

No. They are not wood-boring insects and do not normally damage structural timber.

Why are there so many earwigs outside?

Damp conditions, organic debris and sheltered hiding places may support larger numbers.

Do earwigs survive winter?

Yes. Adults can overwinter in protected soil and other sheltered locations.

Do earwigs look after their babies?

Yes. Female earwigs guard and clean their eggs and may care for newly hatched nymphs.

How can I stop earwigs entering my home?

Seal entry points, reduce dampness and remove unnecessary sheltered debris near external walls.

Do I need professional earwig treatment?

Usually not for occasional sightings, but professional advice may help when large numbers repeatedly enter a property.

When should I contact Youngs Pest Control?

Contact us if earwigs continue appearing indoors despite preventive measures or if you are unsure which insect is present.

Earwig Identification and Pest Control – Youngs Pest Control

The European Earwig is a common garden insect that is generally harmless to people. Although it can occasionally damage flowers and young plants, it also provides useful benefits by feeding on aphids and helping break down organic material.

Earwigs usually remain outdoors, but they may enter homes and commercial buildings where suitable shelter and moisture are available.

Youngs Pest Control is a family-run pest management company with over 35 years of experience. We are fully insured and members of the National Pest Technicians Association.

We provide professional pest identification, inspection and control services across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside.

If earwigs are repeatedly appearing inside your property, contact our team for advice on identifying entry points and managing the conditions that may be attracting them.

Contact Youngs Pest Control:

Telephone: 0161 776 9832

Mobile: 07845 815 261