
Community identification
Earwig (likely a small earwig)
Dermaptera; species uncertain from the image
- Order & Family
- Order Dermaptera; family likely Forficulidae
- Size
- About 5–15 mm long, excluding antennae.
Natural Habitat
Moist, sheltered places such as leaf litter, soil crevices, and beneath stones or bark.
Diet & Feeding
Mostly feeds on decaying plant material and small insects; some species also damage soft garden plants.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and secretive, with forceps-like pincers at the abdomen tip. Females often guard eggs and young in underground nests.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people; generally useful scavengers and predators, though abundant earwigs may nibble seedlings, flowers, or fruit.