Ever spotted an earwig and wondered what they're all about? They might look intimidating with their pincers, but they're actually harmless.
First off, let's clear up a myth: earwigs don't crawl into your ears at night. Their name comes from an old wives' tale, but there's no truth to it.
Earwigs are nocturnal insects, meaning they come out at night to feed. They love munching on decaying plant material, but they'll also snack on live plants, fruits, and even other insects. This makes them both beneficial and a bit of a nuisance, depending on where they are.
You'll often find earwigs in damp, dark places like under rocks, logs, or mulch. They thrive in moist environments, so if you see a lot of them around your home, it might be a sign of excess moisture.
Want to keep earwigs at bay? Here are some tips:
Despite their intimidating appearance, earwigs aren't harmful to humans. Their pincers are mainly for defense and catching prey.
If you do find them indoors, it's usually because they're seeking shelter or food.