Earwigs

Professional Earwig Pest Control Houston TX

The common earwig “Forficula auricularia” is a unique insect species, with a long, slender body that ranges between dark brown and reddish/brown in color. The six legs are yellowish/orange to light brown, while the antennas are segmented. The species belongs to the “Dermaptera” order, which is identified by what scientists have deemed “cerci.” The cerci, pincers or appendages, protrude from the cerci’s abdomen.  Since the male and his female counterpart have cerci, differentiating between the two genders may be difficult for the inexperienced individual. To simplify the process while ensuring accuracy, it is important to access the cerci carefully. The male’s cerci are slightly smaller, with a narrower curvature.

The species is comprised of both wingless and winged earwigs. While the wingless earwig lacks flying capabilities, the winged earwig rarely utilizes its flying capabilities. The winged earwig has six legs that are uniquely folded under the body. What makes the earwig’s wings so unique is the thin leather-like membrane that covers the hind wings.

Scientists have identified about 900 Dermaptera species, which are drawn to humidity problem areas. In the human habitat, the earwig can be found in basements, crawlspaces, saunas, and bathrooms. In their natural habitat, the insect can be found living underneath piles of firewood and lumber, near creeks and rivers, and under rocks.

Why Are Earwigs Attracted To My Houston Home?

There are several reasons why the earwig infiltrates residential and commercial establishments. Earwig activity is at its highest in the late fall and mid-spring. In the late fall, the earwig is preparing for overwintering. Overwintering is a hibernation-like state that allows insects to survive on minimal nutrients derived from stored fats. The insect remains in the overwintering state until the weather begins to show some sign of warming up, which is most often the following spring. By mid- or late-spring, earwigs begin preparing for the breeding season.

Spring and fall are peak seasons for earwigs. Keeping this in mind, Houston property owners need to be on a continuous lookout for earwigs during these seasons.

Do Earwigs Cause Infest Houston Properties?

Unlike the ant and termite, the earwig is a solitary insect species. Solitary behavior among insects is not as uncommon as one may believe. In fact, there are tens of thousands of solitary insect species, including the earwig. The solitary insect does not colonize, decreasing the risk of infestation in residential and commercial properties in Houston and beyond.

Do not think you are off the hook just yet because earwigs can be problematic for Houston property owners. The earwig relies on its cerci in combat with enemy cerci and predatory insects. The cerci are also utilized when feeding on plants and arthropods – flea and mite. Fortunately, the earwig’s cerci can not penetrate human or animal skin. Even if you pick the earwig up between your thumb and forefinger, the cerci will do no damage to your skin.

Even the largest species of earwig – Saint Helena Giant earwig – cannot injure humans. The Saint Helena Giant earwig grows up to 3 inches in length, nearly 1 inch longer than most other earwig species.

The cerci are also not strong enough to cause structural damage.

What Is The Best EPA-Approved Pest Control Solution For Earwigs?

The most effective strategy for earwigs is professional pest management, which utilizes industrial-strength pesticides and adhesive traps. To ensure the maximum results, we integrate home inspections into the earwig management treatment. Our pest control process works by starting with an inspection of the impacted property.

Is one earwig enough to cause concern? Earwigs are not known to reproduce indoors. However, the insect has met the criteria to be classified as a “pantry pest” or “stored product pest.” The pantry pest is an insect that infiltrates pantries, in search of non-perishable food.

The pantry pest earwig feeds on cookies, potato chips, candies, spices, flour, granulated sugar, birdseed, dog food, and nuts. Any type of non-refrigerated food stored in manufacturing paperboard packaging can be infiltrated by the earwig.

How Long Does It Take To Process An Earwig Inspection Request?

Our service request processing can take up to 48 hours in the earwig off-season. An additional 24 to 48 hours can be added to the process during the earwig peak season. We strive to deliver quick responses to ensure all Houston consumers have access to our high-quality pest control services.

Do not forget, we offer same-day and emergency pest control services. These services are ideal for moderate to severe earwig infiltration. Do not hesitate to reach out to our Houston customer support to inquire about our emergency pest management services.

Does Earwig Insecticide Contain Toxins?

The chemicals found in insecticides are toxic to earwigs. These toxic ingredients are designed to deliver quick eradication of earwigs on direct contact. We believe chemical pesticides play a major role in earwig management. Chemical pesticides have been around for decades because they are effective and cost-efficient. With this said, eco-friendly pest control is gaining in popularity by the day. Eco-friendly pesticides utilize natural and organic toxins to eradicate earwigs on direct contact.

Our eco-friendly pest control is highly recommended because it utilizes natural pesticides that do not pose an environmental threat.

Our natural, organic, and chemical pest control products are all approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Is It Possible To Create An Earwig-Free Environment In Residential Establishments?

Yes, earwig-free environments are possible, with the help of our extermination team in Houston. We believe a partnership between one of our pest control experts and a customer offers the best results. We can help you turn your infested home into an earwig-free environment. The first step of the process depends on the client’s willingness and determination. This is a complex process that focuses on the structural components that create a barrier between your home and earwigs.

Doors, windows, walls, ceilings, siding, roofing systems, and flooring are all responsible for keeping insect intruders out of your home. When these structural components become vulnerable, they will allow earwigs to freely infiltrate your home.

It is also important to protect your non-perishable food supply by transitioning to glass and ceramic storage containers. Learn more by contacting our Houston pest control experts.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.