With temperatures gradually cooling down, homes often become unwitting hosts to earwigs seeking refuge from the changing weather. Recognized by their distinctive pincer-like appendages, these nocturnal insects can be particularly persistent in finding their way indoors. Below, we discuss how to keep earwigs at bay and maintain a bug-free living space. When you need pest control for your home or business in Sacramento and the surrounding areas, get in touch with Direct Hit Pest Control.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

Despite their somewhat menacing appearance, earwigs are generally not considered dangerous to humans. While they possess pincer-like appendages, these are primarily used for defense and mating rather than aggression toward people and aren't strong enough to pierce the skin. Earwigs are opportunistic feeders, consuming small insects and decaying organic matter, making them more of a nuisance than a threat. However, their presence in the home can be undesirable, especially during the fall and winter when cooler temperatures drive them indoors seeking warmth and shelter. 

Earwig Prevention Tips

To keep your home free of earwigs, consider implementing these prevention tips: 

• Seal any cracks, gaps, or entry points in doors, windows, and the foundation to restrict their access indoors. 
• Ensure proper ventilation and eliminate excess moisture, as earwigs are attracted to damp environments. 
• Clear away debris, mulch, and decaying vegetation from around the foundation, as these provide ideal hiding spots. 
• Use natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils such as citrus, peppermint, or cedar around potential entry points. 
• Use sticky traps or insecticides in outdoor areas to create a barrier. 

Earwigs are generally solitary insects, although infestations are a possibility. Earwigs are more likely to reproduce outdoors, but if you have an earwig invasion, contact your local pest control company.

Pest Control in Sacramento

Direct Hit Pest Control provides professional residential and commercial pest control in Sacramento, Rio Linda, and the surrounding California communities. Our team has more than 30 years of pest control experience, giving us the knowledge and know-how to provide the highest quality services. We routinely help our clients with insect infestation and prevention. If something unwanted is living in your trees, yard, or under your roof, it’s best to let a professional pest control technician remove it so you don’t put yourself at risk of bites or other injuries To request an estimate or more information about pest control in Sacramento, give our friendly team a call at (916) 992-6870 today.