Earwigs sometimes give even the most experienced professional problems. So the Do It Yourself Pest Control Person should SOS (search out the source). The removal of habitat will help in the control of the earwigs
Earwigs are fast moving insects about 1 inch long, reddish brown to black in color, and have distinctive pincers at the end of their abdomen. They are commonly found in large groups under debris, rocks, and flower pots around the outside of homes. Indoors they may be seen in kitchens and bathrooms, but also other rooms in the home. Earwigs generally feed as scavengers on dead insects and rotting plant material. The adults overwinter and lay their eggs in moist soil in the spring. The gregarious behavior of the adults and immature stages may result in large concentrations of these insects in secluded locations. Earwigs often occur in close proximity to people, even getting into homes, through doorways, windows and other cracks and crevices, but usually do not become established indoors. Indoors they seek out warm, moist areas and thus may be found in basements, kitchens, and occasionally in bathrooms. Inside they are nuisance pests, and being nocturnal, forage at night and rest in dark, moist places during the day time.
Do It Yourself Pest Control of earwigs start with removing as much of their preferred harborage (under flower pots or other flat objects) around the home; this will reduce outdoor populations. Sealing door thresholds and around windows will also be helpful. For long-term management look for sources of moisture and correct them. Trim back vegetation that shades the structure and contributes to moisture retention around the foundation, and other parts of the structure. Ground covers may need to be removed from along foundation walls. Clean gutters and repair broken downspouts as needed. Be sure crawl spaces are well ventilated to remove moisture.
Do It Yourself Pest Control of earwig populations outdoors: Here at A & E Pest Control we are having getting great control using Niban around the house and in the bedding around the home. We will also treat the outside foundation, window sills, door jams, and any entry point with Demand CS, Demon WP, Suspend SC, or TalstarP (TalstarOne). Also treat the ground around your home 5 to 8 feet wide with Talstar PL granules.All of these products are odorless and will give you great results.
If earwigs are coming indoors use a crack and crevice treatment such as Cy-Kick CS aerosol, spraying along the baseboards, beneath cabinets, and other hiding places on the ground level. A crack and crevice tube is included to spray with a fine stream.
As the Do It Yourself Pest Control Person you are the one responsible for any Drift of Pesticide or contamination of waters in the area. So please read and follow the label very carefully.
