What Do Earwigs Do? 

Earwigs have become the subject of various myths and misconceptions. But what do earwigs actually do? Let’s explore the reality behind these often misunderstood insects, debunk some common myths, and learn more about how to remove them effectively. 

Understanding Earwig Behavior

Earwigs are commonly found in gardens, under stones, mulch, or in the damp corners of basements. Contrary to popular belief, earwigs do not burrow into human ears to lay eggs—a myth that has no basis in fact. Instead, they are primarily scavengers, feeding on decaying organic matter, other insects, and plants. Despite their fearsome appearance, earwigs are not aggressive toward humans. Their pincers, or cerci, are used mainly for defence against predators and to assist in capturing prey. While they might occasionally pinch if handled, their pinch is not dangerous and does not transmit any toxins.

The Role of Earwigs in the Ecosystem

Earwigs play a surprisingly beneficial role in gardens. They help to control aphids, mites, and other small pests by feeding on them. Additionally, their diet includes dead plant material, which aids in the decomposition process, enriching the soil. In this way, earwigs contribute to the health of the ecosystem, making them more of a friend than a foe in many garden environments. However, when their populations grow excessively, earwigs can become a nuisance. They might start feeding on seedlings, flowers, and soft fruits, causing noticeable damage. In such cases, managing their numbers becomes essential to protect garden plants.

Common Myths About Earwigs

Earwigs have long been associated with various myths, many of which exaggerate their threat to humans. One persistent myth is that earwigs crawl into people’s ears and burrow into their brains. This belief likely originated from the insect’s name, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Earwigs prefer to avoid human contact and are far more interested in finding food and shelter than in causing harm. Another common misconception is that earwigs are poisonous. While their pincers might look dangerous, they are not capable of delivering venom or causing significant injury to humans or pets. At most, an earwig might give a mild pinch if threatened, but this is generally harmless.

Earwigs’ Contribution to The Environment

Contribution	Description
Pest Control	Earwigs help control populations of aphids, mites, and other small garden pests by feeding on them.
Decomposition	They consume dead plant material, aiding in the decomposition process and enriching the soil.
Soil Aeration	By burrowing and moving through the soil, earwigs help aerate the soil, promoting better root growth for plants.
Natural Predator	Earwigs serve as prey for birds, toads, and other wildlife, contributing to the food chain.
Biodiversity	Their presence supports biodiversity in gardens, contributing to a balanced and healthy ecosystem.