Have you ever heard the stories about earwigs crawling into peoples’ ears and then laying eggs in their brains? Well, those stories are just stories, myths derived from European folklore that have made earwigs seem more menacing than they actually are. However, just because they may not make their home inside your brain doesn’t mean that you want them making their home inside your home here in San Antonio. Earwig prevention is as easy as knowing a few basic techniques that will keep them out so that you can rest easy knowing your San Antonio home is earwig-free.
What Are Earwigs?
Earwigs are pests that have slender, elongated bodies that grow from ¼ of an inch to 1 inch in length. Their colors range from pale brown to reddish-brown to black. In addition to this, earwigs have six legs and two thread-like antennae that grow to about half the length of their bodies. They also feature pincers that protrude from the backs of their abdomens and two pairs of wings. Even though they have wings, not all species of earwigs fly, and those that do only fly for short durations.
Things that attract earwigs are high-moisture areas, dirt, and leaves. Because of this, unfinished basements are a prime location for earwig infestations. But even if you have a finished basement, you are still susceptible to earwigs. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, or anywhere else that provides easy access to water could be where you find earwig infestations in your home.
Are Earwigs Dangerous?
We’ve already busted the myth about earwigs infiltrating human brains via ears, but are earwigs otherwise a threat to people? Given that they are not venomous, do not spread diseases, and do not cause any real property damage, we can say that earwigs are not threatening to people. However, they have been known to pinch with their pincers if they feel threatened. Though the pinch does not transmit venom, it still can sting. Moreover, earwigs are known to emit a foul-smelling odorous liquid as a self-defense mechanism. Plus they are unsightly pests to see around the home.
How To Prevent Earwigs?
Even though earwigs are considered to be nuisance pests, that doesn’t mean you want them in your home. That’s why you should know a few simple prevention techniques that you can utilize to lower your odds having to deal with an earwig infestation in the first place. When it comes to earwig prevention, the main goals are to eliminate points of entry as well as areas that may provide water to them. Some techniques to use include:
- Seal cracks in the foundation of your home.
- Seal cracks around window and door frames.
- Seal cracks around vents.
- Fix leaky pipes and fixtures throughout your home.
- Use dehumidifiers in unfinished basements.
- Keep unfished basement floors free of debris.
If you are able to utilize these techniques, you should be able to reduce your exposure to earwig infestations.
What To Do If You Have An Earwig Infestation
If you are currently dealing with an earwig infestation, or if you have questions about earwig prevention, contact the professionals here at Romney Pest Control without delay. Here at Romney Pest Control, we have the experience and tools to take care of any infestation with which you may be dealing. And our trained pest professionals will work with you to take the proper steps in order to prevent future infestations. Your home belongs to you, not to bugs. Don’t wait until it is too late. Give us all a call today.
