Earwigs (Forficula auricularia)

A long, narrow, brown insect 10 to 14mm long with characteristic “pincers” at one end, the earwig is often carried indoors in cut flowers or house plants and often invades from the garden through open windows, sometimes in large numbers. Despite their appearance, Earwigs don’t bite, are harmless and is only a minor agricultural/amenity pest.

Earwigs-1How to prevent Earwigs

Earwigs can be discouraged by keeping creepers or vegetation in the garden cut back.

How to get rid of Earwigs

Applying the prevention tip and using an appropriate insect powder on walls near windows and dusting humid corners where they congregate will minimise the problem. A garden insecticide may be used outdoors and on vegetation.

For a heavy Earwig infestation, we would recommend you contact professional pest control company, preferably a member of the IPCA to administer a treatment. A trained professional will have the technical knowledge and access to a range of professional use products and equipment which are not available to the public.