European Earwig
Forficula auricularia
Anatomy
Identification
Distinguishing Features
- Prominent forceps-like pincers (cerci) at the tip of the abdomen
- Male pincers are curved like calipers; female pincers are straighter
- Short, leathery forewings (tegmina) covering folded hind wings
- Flattened, elongated body shape
Biology
Lifecycle
Incomplete metamorphosis: egg to nymph to adult. Females display unusual maternal care, guarding eggs through winter and tending nymphs until their first molt.
Diet
Omnivorous scavengers feeding on decaying plant matter, aphids, mites, and soft plant tissues. Can damage garden flowers and vegetables.
Nesting
Congregate in dark, moist areas such as under rocks, logs, mulch, and debris. Females overwinter in burrows with their eggs. They do not nest indoors but seek shelter during hot, dry weather.
Signs of Infestation
Earwigs found indoors
Finding earwigs in basements, bathrooms, or kitchens, especially during hot, dry weather. They seek cool, damp areas.
Damage to garden plants
Irregular holes in leaves, flowers, and soft fruits. Damage often appears overnight as earwigs are nocturnal.
Aggregations under objects
Large numbers found under flowerpots, doormats, rocks, and mulch during daytime.
Presence near moisture sources
Commonly found in window wells, around leaky faucets, and in damp basement corners.
Where They Nest
- Under doormats and welcome mats
- In window wells and basement window frames
- Under mulch and garden debris near foundation
- In damp basements and crawlspaces
- Around bathroom and kitchen plumbing
Distribution in Canada
Established across southern Canada from British Columbia to the Maritime provinces. Originally from Europe, introduced to North America in the early 20th century.
Active Season
Active May through October. Indoor migration peaks during late summer heat and drought. Adults overwinter in soil.
Prevention
- Remove mulch, leaf litter, and debris from against the foundation
- Fix leaky outdoor faucets and improve drainage around the home
- Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundation
- Replace weather stripping on exterior doors
- Move firewood and compost piles away from the house
Professional Treatment
Exterior perimeter treatments create a barrier preventing earwigs from entering. Technicians also identify and address moisture issues and entry points. Indoor treatments are rarely needed when exterior control is effective.
Get General Pest Control ServiceFrequently Asked Questions
What does a European Earwig eat?
Omnivorous scavengers feeding on decaying plant matter, aphids, mites, and soft plant tissues. Can damage garden flowers and vegetables.
Where does a European Earwig nest?
Congregate in dark, moist areas such as under rocks, logs, mulch, and debris. Females overwinter in burrows with their eggs. They do not nest indoors but seek shelter during hot, dry weather.
When is a European Earwig most active?
Active May through October. Indoor migration peaks during late summer heat and drought. Adults overwinter in soil.
What are the signs of a European Earwig infestation?
Earwigs found indoors: Finding earwigs in basements, bathrooms, or kitchens, especially during hot, dry weather. They seek cool, damp areas. Damage to garden plants: Irregular holes in leaves, flowers, and soft fruits. Damage often appears overnight as earwigs are nocturnal. Aggregations under objects: Large numbers found under flowerpots, doormats, rocks, and mulch during daytime. Presence near moisture sources: Commonly found in window wells, around leaky faucets, and in damp basement corners.
How can I prevent a European Earwig infestation?
Remove mulch, leaf litter, and debris from against the foundation. Fix leaky outdoor faucets and improve drainage around the home. Seal cracks around windows, doors, and foundation. Replace weather stripping on exterior doors. Move firewood and compost piles away from the house.
How is a European Earwig treated?
Exterior perimeter treatments create a barrier preventing earwigs from entering. Technicians also identify and address moisture issues and entry points. Indoor treatments are rarely needed when exterior control is effective.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Dermaptera
- Family
- Forficulidae
- Genus
- Forficula
