Top 3 Bugs That Look Like Earwigs

By proofPest

Despite their unique appearance, there are a handful of bugs that look like earwigs. These intriguing insects can be spotted in diverse habitats, ranging from lush gardens and sprawling yards to the familiar confines of homes and bustling businesses. 

In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into the world of these earwig look-alikes, examining their distinct characteristics and behaviors, plus how they can impact your home. 

Silverfish

A silverfish on the ground covered in shadow

Do you have books that are mysteriously falling apart or see tiny holes in your favorite sweater? You might have a silverfish infestation on your hands! 

These creepy crawlers are some of the most common insects that look like earwigs, with their long, slender bodies and shiny silver-grey color. They have two long antennae on their heads and three bristle-like tails at the end of their bodies, making them quite distinctive.

But don’t let their small size fool you – silverfish can wreak havoc on your home and personal belongings! They are often attracted to paper products and can damage books, documents, and other paper-based items. 

And if that wasn’t bad enough, they also love carbohydrates like sugar, starch, fabrics, and glue. They can even cause damage to wallpaper and other household surfaces.

Prevention is also key when it comes to silverfish. Try to keep your home clean and dry, as silverfish are attracted to damp environments. 

Reduce clutter and store paper products in sealed containers, and avoid leaving out food or crumbs that may attract these pests. You can also use dehumidifiers or fans to keep the air dry and seal any cracks or gaps in your home to prevent them from getting in.

Silverfish are notoriously tricky to get rid of alone, as they can hide in tiny cracks and crevices throughout your home. 

If you suspect you have a silverfish infestation, it’s best to call in the professionals before they start munching on everything in sight! A pest control professional like proof. can help identify the source of the infestation and provide effective treatment options. Get in touch with us today!

Firebrats

A firebrat on a green leaf

Do you know what’s worse than finding one creepy-crawly in your home? Finding out that there’s a whole family of them! 

Firebrats are other bugs that look like earwigs and even bear a striking resemblance to silverfish. These pests have a similar body shape with three long tails at the end of their body. However, they’re usually a darker brown, making them stand out from their silverfish cousins.

These sneaky bugs lurk in warm environments, like attics, basements, and heating ducts. They’re attracted to high temperatures and can survive in areas where other insects cannot. And just like silverfish, they love snacking on paper products, fabrics, and other organic materials.

 

While firebrats may not be harmful to humans or pets, they can cause a lot of damage to your personal belongings. Imagine finding holes in your favorite shirt or discovering that your essential documents are nothing but scraps of paper! If you suspect a firebrat infestation, it’s best to contact a pest control professional as soon as possible.

Rove Beetles

A black rove beetle, one of the bugs that look like earwigs, shuffling through the sand

Are you familiar with rove beetles? These curious critters are other bugs that look like earwigs and are often mistaken for the pest because of their elongated bodies and long antennae. 

However, rove beetles have short wing covers that don’t fully cover their abdomen. They’re usually black or brown in color and can be found in various environments, from gardens to forests and even inside homes.

These predatory insects feed on other insects, which means they can help keep other pests in check. However, some species of rove beetles have a defensive spray that can cause skin irritation, so it’s best to avoid handling them if possible.

While rove beetles may not directly harm humans, keeping them under control is important to prevent an infestation. If you notice many rove beetles in your home or garden, it may indicate an underlying pest problem. In this case, it’s best to contact a pest control professional to identify the root cause of the infestation and provide effective treatment options.

Earwigs

Of course, we can’t talk about bugs that look like earwigs without mentioning the real deal! 

Earwigs are small insects with elongated bodies and pincers at the end of their abdomen. They are usually brown or black and have two pairs of wings, although they are rarely seen in flight.

Interestingly, earwigs have a negative reputation in some cultures. They’re believed to crawl into people’s ears while they sleep, leading to their common name. But fear not; this is just a myth, as earwigs are not known to cause any harm to humans.

Exterminating Earwigs (& Bugs That Look Like Earwigs!)

If you’re dealing with an infestation of earwigs or other lookalike bugs, don’t panic! Here are some tips to help you eliminate them and keep them from returning.

Remove their habitat: Earwigs and other bugs usually thrive in dark, damp places. To make your home less hospitable to these insects, try eliminating any potential hiding places by reducing clutter and keeping your home dry and well-ventilated.

Seal cracks and gaps: Insects can enter your home through small cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and other openings. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or weather stripping to prevent them from getting in.

Use a dehumidifier: These pests thrive in damp environments. Consider using a dehumidifier to keep the air dry and reduce the humidity in your home. 

Keep your home clean: Regular cleaning can help decrease the food and moisture sources that attract earwigs and other bugs. Be sure to vacuum and sweep regularly, especially where food is prepared or stored.

Seek professional help: If you cannot get rid of earwigs or other bugs on your own or have a severe infestation, consider contacting a pest control professional for assistance. They can help identify the type of insect you are dealing with and provide effective treatment options.

Remember that prevention is key when controlling earwigs and other bugs that may look like earwigs. By keeping your home clean, dry, and well-sealed, you can help prevent these insects from becoming a problem in the first place.

If you have an earwig problem that’s not letting up, contact us here at proof. pest control! We can swiftly remove these invasive pests and return your peace of mind. 

 

Call proof. pest control at 888-291-5333, or send us a message online.

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