Serving Memphis, Cordova, Germantown & Collierville TN
The earwig is an insect whose name is associated with a level of horror and fascination to many people. Despite its name, however, earwigs don’t crawl in ears nor are they harmful to humans or destructive. However, that doesn’t mean they are welcomed creatures in your home. Our Memphis area pest control experts at AAA Termite and Pest Control answer questions about earwigs, why they sometimes choose to visit your home, and effective treatment methods.
What is an earwig?
Dermaptera are commonly known as earwigs and have bodies of dark reddish-brown color and a large abdomen in the form of cerci, which look like pinchers. These pincers are mostly used as a protective measure, especially when confronting other earwigs. Cordova pest control experts would like to stress that, even though earwigs might seem intimidating or even scary, these insects aren’t dangerous to humans or pets. In fact, these creatures can be observed to be quite shy and spend most of their time trying to find a good place to hide, preferably in a dark corner. Nests are often found in homes in leaf litter, cracks, and crevices.
Do earwigs offer any benefits?
Indoors, earwigs generally are not known to be destructible. However, they may damage house plants or become a problem outside if you have a garden. Otherwise, earwigs are beneficial in decomposing organic content, which is helpful to the ecosystem.
Do earwigs crawl into human ears?
One of the most widespread myths refers to the infestation of human ears by earwigs. However, this is not true. Earwigs will not harm humans, nor will they crawl into your ears. Our Cordova area pest control experts explain that these pests are regarded as periodic intruders that are more likely to be found in warm, damp mulch beds or inside seeking a heat or light source.
How to prevent earwigs
Prevent earwigs by taking the following actions:
- Keep gutters and drains clean.
- Control moisture levels inside your home, especially if you have a basement.
- Keep mulch away from your home’s foundation.
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Install window screens on your windows.
- Fill cracks or holes outside your home.
- Promptly repair leaks to avoid moisture inside your home.
- Opt for professional pest control treatments that not only address the issue of earwigs, but other common household pests that you don’t want inside.
Pest Control Experts in Cordova and Memphis, Tennessee
The earwig garnered quite a sinister reputation as the creature that invades people’s ears at night. Although, the real existence of such creatures is quite different and much more benign. However, pests belong outdoors and not in your home, so the time you see an earwig crawling across your kitchen floor or lending its ‘spy-like’ body to your garden’s lurking image, don’t be quick to judge it. Instead, contact our pest control experts serving the Memphis and Cordova areas at AAA Termite and Pest Control at (901) 737-7378 to limit the chance of their intrusion into your home.