Effective treatments with guaranteed relief

Earwigs

Earwigs belong to the order Dermaptera, a group of insects easily recognized by their long, slender bodies and distinctive forceps-like pincers at the end of their abdomen. These pincers, or cerci, are used for defense, capturing prey, and during mating displays. Adult earwigs typically range between 1 to 2.5 centimeters long and are dark brown or reddish-brown in color.

Although their name comes from an old myth suggesting they crawl into people’s ears, a story with no scientific basis, earwigs actually prefer cool, dark, and damp environments like under mulch, stones, or decaying wood. They are scavengers and opportunistic feeders, consuming organic matter, decaying leaves, small insects, and even garden plants when food sources are scarce.

uc_stacked_images_elementor_55656608_item1 uc_stacked_images_elementor_55656608_item2 uc_stacked_images_elementor_55656608_item3 uc_stacked_images_elementor_55656608_item4

119 Google reviews

Book An Inspection

20+ Years Experience

Quick Response

100-Day Warranty

Licensed and Insured

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Earwigs undergo gradual metamorphosis, passing through three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Females lay their eggs in underground burrows during cooler months, carefully guarding them until they hatch. Nymphs resemble miniature adults and molt several times before reaching maturity.

This protective maternal behavior makes earwigs unique among insects. Once the young are old enough to survive independently, they leave the nest and begin foraging. Earwigs are primarily active at night, hiding in moist crevices during the day and emerging after dark to feed.

Signs of an Earwig Infestation

Because earwigs are nocturnal, you might not notice them right away. However, several signs can indicate their presence:

  • Sightings indoors: Finding earwigs in bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, or kitchens often means they’ve entered through small gaps seeking moisture or shelter.

  • Damaged plants: Ragged holes or chewed edges on leaves, petals, or soft fruit can signal earwig feeding activity in gardens or greenhouses.

  • Unpleasant odor: Large numbers of earwigs can emit a noticeable foul smell when disturbed.

  • Gathering near lights: Earwigs are attracted to bright lights at night and can congregate near windows or entryways.

While they don’t spread diseases or bite humans, their presence in large numbers can become unsightly and bothersome.

Earwigs Control

Why Earwigs Enter Buildings

Earwigs prefer humid, sheltered environments. When outdoor conditions become too dry or cold, they move indoors in search of moisture and warmth. Common entry points include:

  • Foundation cracks and door gaps
  • Utility line openings and vents
  • Window sills and basement windows
  • Leaky pipes or damp basements

Once inside, earwigs often gather in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry areas, anywhere water and food sources are available.

Preventing Earwig Infestations

Prevention is the most effective strategy against earwigs. Here are some professional recommendations from Canadian Pest Solutions experts to reduce the risk of an infestation:

  • Eliminate moisture sources: Fix leaky faucets, improve drainage, and use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
  • Reduce outdoor hiding spots: Remove piles of leaves, mulch, or wood near your home’s foundation.
  • Seal entry points: Inspect doors, windows, and utility openings for gaps or cracks, and seal them with caulking or weatherstripping.
  • Adjust lighting: Use yellow “bug” lights outdoors, as earwigs are less attracted to them.
  • Maintain landscaping: Trim back vegetation that touches the building and ensure gutters direct water away from the foundation.

By taking these steps, you make your property less inviting to earwigs and other moisture-loving pests.

Safe and Effective Earwig Control

If earwigs have already entered your property, professional treatment is the fastest way to eliminate them. Canadian Pest Solutions uses an integrated pest management (IPM) approach that prioritizes safety and long-term prevention. Our process includes:
  1. Thorough inspection: Identifying earwig activity, entry points, and moisture issues around the property.
  2. Customized treatment: Using safe, targeted applications that remove earwigs without harming your family, pets, or the environment.
  3. Moisture and habitat control: Addressing underlying conditions that attract earwigs in the first place.
  4. Preventive monitoring: Offering follow-up checks and advice to ensure your home stays pest-free.
Our licensed technicians use environmentally responsible methods and advanced products to control infestations effectively, providing lasting protection without unnecessary chemical use.

Are Earwigs Dangerous?

Despite their intimidating appearance, earwigs are not dangerous to humans or pets. They do not spread diseases, and their pincers are too weak to cause harm. In fact, earwigs can even be beneficial in small numbers, feeding on aphids and other garden pests.

However, when their population grows unchecked, earwigs can damage ornamental plants and crops, stain surfaces, and create discomfort inside homes. That’s when professional pest management becomes essential.

Why Choose Canadian Pest Solutions

At Canadian Pest Solutions, we’re dedicated to protecting your property from unwanted pests using safe and effective methods. Our trained and certified technicians bring years of experience dealing with earwigs and other nuisance insects. Whether you’re facing a one-time infestation or need long-term prevention strategies, we’re here to help.

We stand by our commitment to:

  • Safe and environmentally responsible solutions
  • Experienced, certified pest control professionals
  • Reliable and discreet service
  • Sustainable, long-term results

Earwig infestations can develop quickly, especially in damp conditions. Taking action early ensures the problem doesn’t spread or recur.

maple (1)

Client testimonials

What our clients say

We used Canadian Pest Solutions for spiders at the end of the summer and were very pleased with the results after just one spray. The technician was knowledgable, professional & polite. We plan on becoming part of their Spider Spray Prgram next year. We like that the company is locally owned and environmentally conscious.
Judy Wyllie
I recently used Canadian Pest Solutions for pest control inside and outside of our home. I was very pleased with their service. The technicians were punctual, professional, and thorough in addressing our pest issues. The follow-up visit ensured the treatment worked well. I highly recommend Canadian Pest Solutions for anyone needing reliable pest control.
Mandie G
Happy with the response time of this company. I called yesterday because I had a massive hornets nest by my sliding door . I am highly allergic so this was not an ideal situation. I called and the lady I spoke to Sent someone out right away. They are reasonably priced and the worker ( I forgot his name) was efficient in taking it down , thanks again for all your help
Robin C
I have been working with this company the past 3 years for my rental properties. I have been happy with the results and the professionalism of the technicians . I always receive detailed reports each visit and they have eliminated every pest problem I have . I recommend them to other property managers and I will continue to use them . Thanks guys !
Dbrow’s fabulous Adventures
This company is amazing. I spoke to them over the phone about my concerns. They told me step by step the process of the whole home program. The technician came out and was very polite, professional and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone who has pest Control problems
Trucker
Your service man Shane, was well educated and informed. He took the time to explain what he was doing and the expected results. He was very polite and willing to answer any of my questions. I would Highly recommend this company.
Bluesplayer1956
Great experience. Loved that the bait isn't easily visible or accessible since we've got little kids and definitely don't want that being something they get into. Had a two-week follow up where the bait was checked and looks like the mouse problem is gone.
Anum Ali
I have been using Canadian Pest Solutions for a few years now. They are friendly, curtious and professional! The product they use has made a huge difference in the control of spiders. I would highly recommend this Company. Thanks Shayne for being so professional and caring!
Andrea Johnston

Protect Your Property from Earwigs

Don’t let earwigs take over your home or garden. Whether you’ve seen a few around or are noticing more each night, Canadian Pest Solutions has the expertise and tools to eliminate them safely and effectively.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or consultation. Let our experts design a customized pest control plan that keeps your property clean, dry, and earwig-free all year round. Learn more about us!

Pest We Control

bed bugs

Bed Bugs

boxelder bugs

Box Elder Bugs

carpenter ants

Carpenter Ants

carpenter bees

Carpenter Bees

carpet beetle

Carpet Beetle

centipede

Centipedes

cockroach

Cockroaches

earwigs

Earwigs

cat fleas

Fleas

bald faced hornets

Hornets

japanese beetle

Japanese Beetle

mice

Mice

mosquitos

Mosquitos

moths

Moths

mud daubers

Mud Daubers

pavement ants

Pavement Ants

pharaoh ants

Pharaoh Ants

roof rats

Rats

silverfish

Silverfish

spiders

Spiders

ticks

Ticks

wasps

Wasps

yellow jackets

Yellow Jackets

Home Local Toll-Free Quote