Earwigs are creepy-looking insects with elongated bodies, large pincers, six legs, and thread-like antenna. These pests are often pale brown, reddish-brown, or black, and are between 5mm and 25mm in length. The best way to identify earwigs is by the large pincers that protrude from the back of their abdomens. Earwigs are commonly known for the myth that they will crawl into your ears while you’re sleeping and lay their eggs. This, however, is simply superstition.
Problems Earwigs Cause
Finding earwigs in your Houston home can be a frightening experience, to say the least. Due to their speed and intimidating pincers, it can be easy to believe that earwigs are dangerous, but earwigs can’t bite or sting humans and they aren’t venomous. While it might be painful if they grasp you with their pincers, pinches from these insects rarely break the skin. Earwigs may chew on plants and damage gardens, but they are not known to create any significant damage to property. Generally speaking, these intimidating insects are simply nuisance pests.
Earwig Prevention Tips
Earwigs are most attracted to Houston homes that have a lot of moisture. If you have moisture problems in or around your home, you risk attracting earwigs to your property. The best way to avoid these pests is by reducing moisture around your property wherever possible.
- Remove clutter and weeds from around your foundation.
- Trim your grass and cut thick vegetation away from your exterior walls.
- Apply weather stripping and door sweeps on exterior doorways.
- Ensure your window and door screens are intact.
- Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls, foundation, and windows.
- Install dehumidifiers in areas of your home that are often humid.
- Replace water-damaged wood with sound wood.
- Repair leaks, drips, and other problems that may create excess moisture.
Why You Need Professional Pest Control
Pest prevention tips are never as effective as professional pest control services. Avoid the stress of dealing with pest infestations when you contact the experts here at Romney Pest Control. We have the experience, equipment, and skills necessary to remove these pests from your Houston home and prevent them from returning. Our home pest control plans cover a wide variety of common home-invading pests, including earwigs. Reach out to Romney Pest Control today to learn how our pest control programs can benefit your property! No matter what pest infestation you’re facing, we have a solution for you.
