Bugged Out: Do Earwigs Really Crawl Into Your Ears?

Earwigs

Let's bust a myth that has been bugging people for ages.

You've heard the story.

You're sleeping peacefully when... gasp!... an earwig crawls into your ear and lays eggs in your brain.

Spoiler alert: That's pure fiction.

While the name earwig sounds like something straight out of a horror movie, the truth is far less dramatic. These little critters don't seek our human ears. In fact, they want nothing to do with you.

So, What Are Earwigs?

Earwigs are small, dark brown insects with long bodies and intimidating looking pincers on their back ends. These pincers, called cerci, are mostly used for defense and occasionally, mating rituals (in the bug world, that's normal).

They're nocturnal and love damp, dark spaces... Think mulch beds, under garden pots or inside wet basements.

Are They Dangerous?

Not really.

• They don't bite, although their pincers might give a gentle pinch if provoked.

• They don't spread disease.

• And no, they don't lay eggs in your ears.

But, they can become a nuisance. Especially, in the summer months when the population spikes and they start creeping inside through cracks and crevices.

Keep Earwigs Out of Your Home

Here's how to prevent an earwig invasion:

1. Eliminate moisture: Fix leaky taps and improve drainage.

2. Seal entry points: Caulk cracks around windows, doors and foundations.

3. Clear Clutter: Keep mulch, leaves and wood piles away from your home's foundation.

Balson To The Rescue

If you're spotting more earwigs than you're comfortable with , it might be time to call in the pros.

Our team will identify breeding sites and tell you the best treatment to eliminate them.