
Community identification
Lesser Earwig
Labia minor
- Order & Family
- Order: Dermaptera, Family: Labiidae
- Size
- 4mm - 7mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found in decaying vegetable matter, compost heaps, manure piles, and occasionally indoors near light sources or damp areas.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; feeds on decaying organic matter, fungal spores, and occasionally small insects or insect eggs.
Behavior Patterns
Primarily nocturnal and very active flyers, especially during warm evenings. Unlike larger earwigs, they are frequently attracted to artificial lights and have a rapid lifecycle.
Risks & Benefits
No health risk to humans; they do not transmit disease and their small pincers cannot break skin. Benefit ecosystems by assisting in the decomposition of organic matter and preying on minor garden pests.