Earwigs, commonly known as “pincher bugs,” are some of the most feared bugs in Colorado. This is especially due to the urban legends about them burrowing into human ears. However, the reality is far different. These bugs like to invade the damp and quiet environments of your house where they can breed and feed. They are particularly seen during the rainy season.
Homeowners may find earwigs in potted plants, under doormats, or in the dark corners of basements and garages. Earwigs can damage your garden by feeding young seedlings and soft vegetables. You will also find them around decaying plant material. Given that earwigs reproduce rapidly, it is important to take action immediately.
Earwigs may not completely leave your property with the use of DIY methods; you need something more professional. If you are facing earwig problems, call an Exterminator in Fort Collins today. Hiring professional services ensures the work has been properly done, and you get peace of mind knowing there are no more bugs left.
Answering common questions about earwigs
Let us take a look at some of the important, yet, common questions people have about earwigs.
- What are earwigs?
Earwigs are small, slender insects with pincer-like structures called cerci at the end of their bodies. They usually grow between ¼ inch and 1 inch in length. The most common type in Colorado is the European earwig. It has a 5/8 inch long, brown-colored body with a reddish head. There is a well-known myth that earwigs crawl into people’s ears to lay eggs. However, there is no reality to this.
- Are earwigs harmful?
Although earwigs may look harmful, they are not harmful to humans or their pets. They are not aggressive and tend to hide when threatened. If they feel threatened, they may pinch you using their pincers, but that does not contain venom.
Coming to property damage, earwigs feed on various garden plants, particularly young seedlings and soft fruits. If you find ragged edges or holes in leaves, buds, and fruits, you probably have earwigs in your garden. However, they also help control pests by feeding on harmful insects like aphids.
- Why are there so many earwigs in Colorado?
The environmental conditions in Colorado are perfectly favorable for earwigs. Earwigs are like damp, decaying organic matter. This is why you will typically find them in your garden during rainy seasons. They may also enter your house to escape extreme temperatures or a lack of moisture. They reach their peak from mid-July to mid-September when they are most active.
- How do earwigs enter a home?
There may be several entry points for earwigs in your home, and you may not even know them. Cracks in foundations, gaps around doors and windows, spaces under exterior doors, and even unscreened vents allow these critters to enter. They can also be unintentionally brought inside on plants, boxes, or garden furniture.
- How can I prevent earwigs from entering my property?
To prevent earwigs from entering your property, the first step is sealing all the entry points. You can use caulking and weather stripping for doors and windows. Make sure your faucets and drainage pipes are not leaking to avoid attracting these bugs by mistake.
Maintaining your garden or yard regularly is also important. Removing organic debris, reducing mulch layers, and trimming back vegetation near the home’s exterior can help.
- What should I do if I find earwigs in my home?
When you find earwigs in your home, use safe removal methods, including using sticky traps or vacuuming them. You can also make homemade traps by rolling up newspapers or shallow containers filled with vegetable oil. However, DIY measures may not work in severe cases, and professional help might be needed.
Remove earwigs today!
Even though earwigs may not be the worst bugs to share your home with, they should not create a nuisance with their presence. Call a pest control team today for an inspection and get rid of them permanently.
+ There are no comments
Add yours