Earwig Information: What is An Earwig?
Earwigs are some of the most interesting insects that are encountered. At the same time, there are many myths about earwigs. It is important to understand the truth about earwigs and to better understand their role in nature. Earwig information is not very abundant, but we do know about the biology and habits of this pest.
Most people see this insect and think that it is a one of the strangest looking bugs. The earwig is a ground insect, although some can fly. Most earwigs frequent most mulch and areas beneath leaves. These bugs have what appear to be pincers extending from their abdomens and jutting out on the opposite end from their heads. These pincers, also called forceps, are not used to aggressively attack people.
While these pincers or forceps can be somewhat intimidating, they are really appendages found on many insects. If disturbed, the forceps can latch onto skin leading to a slightly painful pinch but this is not common. Male forceps are generally larger than the female forceps.
The common name “earwig” probably comes from the old superstition that the insects enter people’s ears and ultimately feed there. This superstition is totally folklore and has no merit whatsoever. There are no known cases where an earwig has injured anyone by entering their ears.
Most earwigs are ground feeders, meaning that they feed on materials found on the ground. This includes vegetation for most species; however, some species of earwigs are predators. In fact, one species of earwig was tested as a control agent against sugar cane infesting beetles.
Earwigs are insects of the order Dermaptera. Stemming from the Latin, derma means “skin” and ptera means “wings” thus “skin winged” from the appearance of the front wings.
Researchers have identified twenty-two species of earwigs in North America. Of that number over half are not native to North America but have been introduced from Europe or the tropics.
Earwigs are fast moving. They run away quickly when the ground litter is moved, uncovering them.
What does an earwig infestation look like?
Why do I have earwigs in my apartment or home?
Are earwigs dangerous or poisonous to humans?
Do earwigs have wings and do they fly?
How do I control earwigs and will they hurt house plants?
How do I exterminate or get rid of earwigs?
How do I keep earwigs out of my house?
What are the difference
-between an Earwig and a Cockroach
-between Earwigs and Silverfish