Earwigs might have a fearsome look with their pincers, but did you know they’re surprisingly sensitive to dry conditions? As a Southern Ontario resident, you know that hot, dry summers are a regular occurrence. This weather can drive earwigs indoors seeking moisture, turning them from garden helpers to unwanted houseguests. But don’t worry, Pest Protection Plus is here to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to keep those pincer-wielding critters out of your home, even in the driest weather. Here is a guide to help you get rid of earwigs!
Not Just a Rainy Day Pest It’s a common misconception that earwigs only appear when it’s damp. While they thrive in moist environments, these adaptable insects can quickly become a nuisance when their outdoor habitats dry up. Earwigs are drawn to the cool, damp areas in your home, making basements, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms prime targets.
How Earwigs Adapt Earwigs have a few tricks up their sleeves to survive dry conditions:
Nocturnal Habits: They become more active at night when temperatures drop and humidity rises slightly.
Seeking Shelter: They hide under rocks, mulch, or debris during the day to conserve moisture.
Opportunistic Invaders: They’ll seize any opportunity to sneak indoors through cracks and crevices, drawn by the promise of moisture and cooler temperatures.
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Outdoor Oasis: Create a hospitable environment for earwigs outside. Water your garden regularly, especially during dry spells. Consider adding a small water feature like a birdbath to provide a drinking source.
Moisture Magnets: Strategically place damp rags or shallow dishes of water in shaded areas of your yard. These will attract earwigs away from your house. Remember to empty and refill them regularly.
Vegetation Management: Keep your lawn trimmed and remove excess vegetation, debris, and leaf piles near your foundation. This eliminates hiding places for earwigs.
Seal the Deal: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, or openings around windows, doors, pipes, and vents. Seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent earwigs from finding a way in.
Dehumidify: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces to reduce moisture levels and make your home less appealing to earwigs.
Lighting Tactics: Earwigs are attracted to light, so switch to yellow bug lights or motion-sensor lights outdoors to minimize their attraction to your home.
Natural Repellents: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth, a natural insecticide, around your foundation. It dehydrates earwigs on contact.
Beneficial Insects: Introduce natural predators like parasitic nematodes into your garden. These microscopic worms prey on earwig larvae, helping to control their population.
Professional Inspection: If you suspect a significant infestation or DIY methods haven’t worked, contact a pest control professional. They can assess the situation and recommend targeted solutions.
Living with Earwigs: It’s Possible! Remember, a few earwigs in your garden are beneficial. They help break down organic matter and control other pests. By creating an environment where earwigs thrive outdoors, you can minimize their desire to invade your home. Pest Protection Plus: Your Trusted Partner in Pest Prevention At Pest Protection Plus, we understand the unique challenges Southern Ontario homeowners face when it comes to earwigs and dry weather. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing effective, eco-friendly solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you achieve a pest-free home, rain or shine!
Learn about our services: https://pestprotectionplus.com/pest-control/
Watch a helpful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fes76kIEOWw
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