Earwigs have been plentiful this spring and summer. The tiny to medium sized insect loves wet and moist conditions, therefore, the past 8 months have been perfect for earwig populations to build. They are rarely, if ever, harmful to man, but because of their large, pincher-like abdominal appendages and flat hardened bodies their appearance is quite formidable. At one time it was thought that them insect could and would enter the ear of sleeping people and bore into their brain. Of course, that belief was found not to have any merit and actually the insect is quite beneficial, feeding on both dead and living insects, algae and fungi. However, some species can emit a foul odor and are certainly not welcome in the home.

Earwigs vary in size from 1/4 to 1 1/4 inches in length. Their color ranges from brown to black and some species have yellow or buff-colored stripes. However, it is the pincher-like forceps protruding backwards as a tail that is the most prominent feature of the insect. Earwigs develop with a gradual metamorphosis from egg to nymph to adult. The young look much like the adult, but lack the wings and the large sized forceps.

Females lay from 20 to 300 eggs, in a chamber in the soil and she is very protective of the eggs and of the newly hatched young. Depending on conditions, one to two generations are born each year. The good news about this prolific insect is that they are accidental invaders in the home and do not reproduce indoors.

There are about 10 species of earwigs that occur in Texas and of these 10, only 3 or 4 can become a problem indoors. When conditions are favorable, earwigs can gain access indoors through very small crack and crevices. They are attracted to moist damp areas as well as lights at night. Reducing outside lights and utilizing insecticides around foundations and in flower beds will limit earwig movement into the home.

The use of caulking and weatherstripping around doors, windows and pipes will also help keep the insect outdoors were it belongs. Indoor applications of insecticides have limited value since earwigs do not reproduce inside. Spot insecticide treatment in problem areas is usually sufficient for control.

Chances are earwigs will not be the only unusual insect seen this year.

These damp conditions will certainly provide South Texas with a host of strange bugs throughout the summer months.