Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects with long, slender bodies and a pair of forceps-like pincers on their back end. While not native in large numbers, earwigs are increasingly found in Southeast Alaska, especially in damp, shaded areas during the rainy season.

Earwigs look intimidating but are not dangerous to humans. They don’t spread disease, and while they have pincers, they rarely use them on people. However, they can become a serious nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers or damage plants in gardens.

Earwigs are most active at night and tend to appear more frequently during wet, warm weather. They seek out damp environments, so basements, bathrooms, and areas with poor drainage or rotting wood are common hiding spots.

Yes. A sudden appearance of earwigs indoors often points to high moisture levels around the home. Leaky pipes, poor drainage, or damp basements create perfect conditions for them to thrive and seek shelter.

Earwigs typically live about one year. They overwinter as adults and lay eggs in early spring. A female can lay 30 to 50 eggs and stays with them until they hatch—a rare trait among insects.

To prevent earwigs:

• Eliminate moisture: Fix leaky pipes, improve drainage, and reduce excess moisture around the foundation.
• Seal cracks: Close off any small gaps in doors, windows, or siding where earwigs can crawl inside.
• Remove debris: Clear away piles of leaves, wood, or mulch that give them shelter near your home.
• Ventilate: Keep attics and crawl spaces well-ventilated to discourage dampness that attracts them.

If you’re seeing earwigs frequently inside your home or around your property, it’s time to call the pros. At Alaska Pest Management, we use targeted treatments and exclusion methods to eliminate earwigs and prevent them from coming back.

Don’t let earwigs creep into your comfort zone. Contact Alaska Pest Management today for professional earwig control.