Earwig

Earwigs (3/4" - 1 _" long) were named by a superstition that the insect would crawl purposely in the ears of sleeping people. Easily recognized by its forceps-like tail appendage, the earwig is a major garden pest, as well as an annoying house pest. It is one of the few solitary insects that takes care of its young. Earwigs feed on green plants and other vegetation, and do little damage indoors. The pinch of their forceps is neither painful nor poisonous.

• The European earwig is common the eastern United States west to Illinois and is found in Oregon and Washington.
  
• This insect is long in shape and is recognized by the forcep-like cerci extending from the rear of its abdomen. On males, the forceps can be quite large and ornate.
  
• Earwigs are omnivores that will catch and eat other insects. These insects live together often in large numbers in tree holes, in landscape mulch, under landscape timbers, and under objects lying on the ground. They will also harbor in the exterior cracks of buildings from which they may wander inside.
  
• Long term relief from these insects is achieved by finding and treating the harborages outside from which the home will be invaded. The experience of a professional company Like Terminix, is helpful in situations where large numbers of earwigs are present.