Earwig Control
Earwigs (pincher bugs) may look frightening but are harmless to humans, however they become a nuisance indoors and damage landscaping.
Sacramento's Earwig Problem
Earwigs, commonly referred to as 'Pincher Bugs,' are another frightening alien-looking pest that can pinch but pose no real harm to humans and pets. In Sacramento, Roseville, Rancho Cordova, Rocklin, and Folsom, homeowners deal with them year-round. While they pose no danger, they become a nuisance when enough of them invade your home. For people who love their landscaping, earwigs are known to damage and destroy fruits, berries, seedling vegetables, and annual flowers.
Types of Earwigs in Sacramento
Knowing which earwig species you're dealing with helps determine the best treatment approach for your home.
European Earwig
The most common earwig species in Sacramento. Dark brown with forceps-like pincers on their abdomen. They are nocturnal and attracted to lights at night. They feed on plants, fruits, and other insects.
Striped Earwig
Larger than the European earwig with distinct light and dark stripes. They are strong fliers and are more commonly found in Southern Sacramento County. They are attracted to lights and can enter homes in large numbers.
Signs of an Earwig Infestation
Look for these common indicators that earwigs have made themselves at home on your property.
Foul Smell
Earwigs produce a yellowish-brown secretion when scared or crushed that has a distinct foul odor. If you notice an unusual smell in areas where earwigs congregate, it's a sign of activity.
Visible Earwigs at Night
Earwigs are nocturnal and hide during the day under rugs, planters, foundation cracks, and other dark, damp areas. You'll spot them crawling on surfaces at night.
Damaged Dead Plants and Leaves
Earwigs feed on decaying plant material, seedlings, and soft fruits. If you notice irregular holes in leaves or damaged garden plants, earwigs may be the culprit.
How to Get Rid of Earwigs
Follow these proven strategies to reduce and eliminate earwig activity around your home.
Seal Cracks & Crevices
Inspect and seal gaps around your foundation, windows, and door frames. Earwigs enter through the smallest openings to find shelter indoors.
Repair Screens & Weatherstripping
Replace damaged window and door screens. Install or repair weatherstripping to eliminate entry points that earwigs use to get inside.
Remove Decaying Organic Matter
Clear old vegetation, firewood piles, and fallen leaves from around your home's foundation. These provide ideal harborage for earwigs.
Reduce Moisture Levels
Earwigs thrive in dim, damp areas. Fix leaky faucets, ensure proper drainage, and use dehumidifiers in crawl spaces and basements.
Inspect Garden Areas Often
Check under planters, landscape timbers, and mulch beds regularly. Early detection prevents earwig populations from growing out of control.
Regular Barrier Treatment Plan
A professional earwig interior and exterior barrier treatment plan keeps earwigs from entering your home year-round with ongoing protection.
Professional Earwig Control
With over 20 years of experience in the Greater Sacramento area, we're your friendly and reliable earwig pest experts. Our service is backed by the Pointer Promise Warranty with free unlimited treatments in between.
Earwig Control in Your City
We provide professional earwig control throughout Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, and Yolo counties. Find earwig control services in your city.
Related Pest Services
Don't let earwigs invade your home.
Call Pointer Pest Control today for a free quote and customized earwig control plan. Family-owned, backed by the Pointer Promise Warranty.
Get Your Free Earwig Control Quote
Fill out the form and we'll get back to you within 15 minutes. Or call us directly.
916-892-0005Request Your Pest Control Quote
Fast answer, clear pricing, no pressure
Thank You!
We'll get back to you within 15 minutes.