Earwigs are often misunderstood insects that have sparked many myths and fears. One of the most common questions is, “Can earwigs bite?” The short answer is no, earwigs do not bite humans. Their pincers, which some people often think are for biting, are mainly for defence and catching prey. These pincers may look scary, but they aren’t strong enough to break human skin.
What Do Earwigs Do to Humans?
Despite their scary appearance, earwigs are mostly harmless to humans. They might use their pincers if they feel threatened, but this is more of a defensive pinch rather than a bite. The pinch might cause mild discomfort, but it’s not dangerous. Unlike mosquitoes or ticks, earwigs don’t spread diseases to humans. So, while they may be unsettling to find in your home, they don’t pose a significant threat to your health.
Why Are Earwigs in My House?
If you’ve seen earwigs in your house, you might wonder why they are there. Earwigs like moist, dark places. They often come inside looking for shelter from extreme weather, especially during hot, dry periods or heavy rains. They usually enter through cracks in walls, windows, and doors. Once inside, they hide in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Earwigs are drawn to places that offer moisture and food. They like decaying organic matter, such as leaves, wood, and plants. Also, bright lights can lure earwigs closer to your home, where they may find a way inside. Outdoor lights, especially those close to windows and doors, can attract earwigs at night.
How to Keep Earwigs Away
To keep earwigs from entering your home, it’s important to remove the things they like. Start by reducing moisture levels inside and around your house. Fix any leaky pipes, use a dehumidifier in damp areas, and make sure water drains properly around your home. Fix cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows to keep them out. Also, keep outdoor lights off or use yellow bulbs that are less attractive to insects.
Why Do Earwigs Have Pincers?
The pincers on an earwig serve multiple purposes. They use them for self-defence, to catch prey, and even during mating. These pincers aren’t strong enough to hurt humans but are useful for earwigs in nature. Male earwigs usually have more curved pincers, while females’ pincers are straighter, which helps identify the species.
Earwigs can be found in many environments, but they prefer moist, dark places. Outside, they are often found under rocks, logs, and mulch, where there is plenty of decaying organic matter to eat. Inside homes, they look for damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
How Did Earwigs Get Their Name?
The name “earwig” comes from an old European belief that these insects would crawl into people’s ears and reach their brains while they slept. This myth is completely untrue. The name has stuck around, but it adds to the fear and misunderstanding of these harmless insects.
Dos and Don’ts When Dealing with Earwig Bites
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Clean the area with soap and water | Panic if you see an earwig in your home |
| Apply an antiseptic cream | Use strong chemicals without proper knowledge |
| Keep the area dry | Leave cracks and gaps unsealed |
| Use ice to reduce any mild swelling | Assume earwigs are dangerous to humans |
