Earwigs in Homes: Identification and Control

Earwigs have pincers at the rear, which look scary but are mostly harmless.

The short answer

Earwigs are brown, elongated insects with rear pincers that hide in damp, dark places by day and come out at night. They enter homes from damp gardens and leaf litter. They do not usually damage homes and rarely pinch. Reduce moisture, remove debris, seal gaps and use screens.

Identification

• Brown, flat, with pincers at the rear.
• Active at night.

Control

1. Reduce damp areas and leaks.
2. Clear leaf litter and debris near walls.
3. Seal gaps and cracks.
4. Vacuum indoors and dispose outside.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Do earwigs go in ears?

This is a myth.

Do they bite?

They can pinch, mildly.

Do they eat plants?

Sometimes.

When to get help?

If numbers are large.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on household pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full household pest control guide for Bangalore.