European Earwigs: Are They Harmful to Humans?

The European earwig (Forficula auricularia) is one of the most common earwig species found across North America and Europe. Recognizable by their pincers and nocturnal habits, these insects often spark curiosity and concern. But are European earwigs harmful to humans? The short answer is no—while they may look intimidating, they pose minimal risk to people.

What Are European Earwigs?

European earwigs are small insects, typically ranging from 0.5 to 0.75 inches long. They have a dark reddish-brown body, long antennae, and characteristic forceps-like pincers (cerci) at the end of their abdomen. Despite their menacing appearance, these pincers are primarily used for:

Defense against predators
Capturing prey (small insects)
Mating rituals

Are European Earwigs Dangerous to Humans?

✅ Myth vs. Reality:

Myth: Earwigs crawl into people’s ears and burrow into their brains.
Reality: This is an old wives’ tale with no basis in fact. Earwigs do not invade human ears intentionally, nor are they capable of causing such harm.

❌ Bites and Stings:

Do They Bite? Rarely. Earwigs have mandibles (jaws) that could pinch if handled roughly, but they don’t have venom or strong biting capabilities.
Do They Sting? No. Earwigs don’t sting, and their pincers, while sharp-looking, can’t pierce human skin effectively.
Are They Poisonous? No. Their pinch might cause mild discomfort but is not dangerous.

European Earwig Bites: What to Expect

While it’s uncommon, if a European earwig pinches you:

Sensation: Mild pinch, similar to a small ant bite.
Aftermath: Possible minor redness or irritation.
Treatment: Wash the area with soap and water. Apply ice if needed for swelling.

If unusual symptoms occur (which is extremely rare), seek medical attention as a precaution.

Why Do European Earwigs Invade Homes?

European earwigs are attracted to moisture, darkness, and food sources. They often enter homes seeking shelter, especially during hot, dry weather or heavy rains.

Common hiding spots include:

Bathrooms and kitchens
Basements and crawl spaces
Under potted plants
Inside newspapers, boxes, or laundry piles

Are European Earwigs Harmful to Gardens?

While not harmful to humans, European earwigs can be a nuisance in gardens:

Plant Damage: They feed on leaves, flowers, and soft fruits like strawberries and apricots.
Pest Control: Interestingly, they also eat aphids and other pests, making them beneficial in small numbers.

European Earwig Life Cycle

Eggs: Laid underground in clusters during the fall.
Nymphs: Hatch in spring, resembling tiny adult earwigs without wings.
Adults: Mature in late summer, living up to a year.

Earwig mothers are surprisingly attentive, guarding their eggs and young—a rare trait in the insect world.

How to Get Rid of European Earwigs

🏠 Indoor Control:

Seal Entry Points: Caulk cracks around windows, doors, and foundations.
Reduce Moisture: Fix leaks and use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Declutter: Remove piles of newspapers, cardboard, and laundry where earwigs hide.

🌱 Outdoor Control:

Eliminate Hiding Spots: Clear garden debris, mulch, and leaf litter.
Trap Earwigs: Use rolled-up newspapers or shallow containers filled with soy sauce and oil to attract and trap them.
Natural Predators: Birds, toads, and predatory insects help keep populations in check.

🚫 Chemical Control (When Necessary):

Use insecticidal sprays labeled for earwig control around the home’s perimeter.
Apply diatomaceous earth in garden beds as a natural deterrent.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re facing a severe infestation:

👉 Get Professional Pest Control Now for expert solutions tailored to your home.

Final Verdict: Are European Earwigs Harmful?

No, European earwigs are not harmful to humans. They can pinch if provoked, but their bites are harmless, and they don’t spread diseases. While they might be unwanted guests indoors or nuisances in the garden, they don’t pose serious risks to people or pets.

Managing moisture, sealing entry points, and maintaining a clean environment are the best ways to keep these critters in check.

Need more pest control tips? Stay tuned for expert advice on managing common household insects!