European Earwig

Natural Habitat

Dark, moist areas such as under rocks, logs, mulch, and in garden debris; occasionally indoors.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; feeds on a variety of plants, flowers, organic debris, and small insects like aphids.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal scavengers that use their cerci (pincers) for defense and mating; females provide maternal care to eggs and nymphs.

Risks & Benefits

Potential minor garden pest to flowers and crops, but beneficial as they consume aphids and mites; harmless to humans despite pincers.

Identified on: 5/27/2026