
Community identification
Earwig (likely European earwig)
Forficula auricularia
- Order & Family
- Dermaptera; Forficulidae
- Size
- Adults are typically 12–16 mm long, excluding the pincers.
Natural Habitat
Moist, sheltered places such as leaf litter, mulch, gardens, crevices, and buildings. They often hide under objects during daylight.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous and opportunistic: feeds on decaying plant matter, algae, small insects, insect eggs, and soft fruits or flowers.
Behavior Patterns
Mostly nocturnal and concealed by day; adults and nymphs forage at night. The forceps-like cerci are used mainly for defense, mating, and handling prey, not for attacking people.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans and do not infest skin or ears. They can damage seedlings, flowers, and fruit but also consume aphids and other small pests and help decompose organic matter.