Earwigs have long been the subject of myths and misconceptions, leading many to believe they are dangerous pests and cause harm to humans. But are earwigs really harmful? Let’s find out!
Understanding Earwigs
Where Do Earwigs Live? Earwigs are usually active at night and thrive in damp, dark environments. Outdoors, you can often find them hiding under rocks, mulch, leaves, or in garden beds. They are also attracted to areas with high moisture levels, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens, which might explain why earwigs are in your house. If you’re asking yourself, “Why are there earwigs in my house?” the answer likely lies in the presence of moisture or decaying organic matter, both of which attract these pests.
Are Earwigs Dangerous?
Despite their intimidating appearance, earwigs are not harmful to humans. The pincers they carry are primarily used for defence and to capture prey, not for attacking people. Earwigs do not sting, and their bite is not venomous. While they can pinch if threatened, it is usually harmless and not strong enough to break the skin. Historically, there was a belief that earwigs could crawl into people’s ears and burrow into their brains, which is completely unfounded. The name “earwig” comes from the Old English word ēarwicga, which means “ear creature,” but this myth has been debunked by science. Earwigs prefer to avoid humans and will only come into contact with us by accident.What Eats Earwigs?
Earwigs have several natural predators that help keep their population in check. Birds, frogs, toads, and some species of beetles are known to prey on earwigs. Encouraging these predators in your garden can be a natural way to control earwig numbers.
What Repels Earwigs?
If you prefer to keep earwigs out of your home using natural methods, there are several repellents you can try. Essential oils, as mentioned earlier, are effective. Additionally, you can create a homemade earwig trap using a shallow dish filled with soy sauce and a few drops of olive oil. Place the dish near areas where earwigs are active, and they will be attracted to the soy sauce, becoming trapped in the liquid.Dos and Don’ts for Dealing with Earwig Bites
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Clean the affected area with soap and water. | Panic; earwig bites are generally harmless. |
| Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. | Scratch the area, which could cause infection. |
| Use an over-the-counter antiseptic if needed. | Ignore persistent symptoms; consult a doctor if necessary. |
| Monitor the area for signs of infection. | Assume all bites are from earwigs; consider other pest possibilities. |
| Keep the area dry and clean for better healing. | Neglect home maintenance, which can lead to more pests. |
