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LOGAN — Small pincers poking you while you feel something crawling in your ear? Must be an earwig right?
Contrary to popular belief, earwigs are not dangerous and won’t actually crawl in your ear while you’re asleep. However, they could be unwelcome guests eating your plants or vegetables. The European earwig is common in Utah and can be found in yards in the summer or in houses in the winter.
“In general, the earwig population hits its climax in the late summer,” Ryan Davis an arthropod diagnostician said. “Any leafy vegetable or leafy fruit is susceptible to damage from earwigs. Since earwigs are omnivorous they are beneficial at low levels because they feed on other pests.”
Utah State University released tips Tuesday on how to keep the earwig population around your home under control. Taun Beddes, a horticulturist at USU Extension, recommended the following:
Create a homemade trap
One effective trap is a 6-inch-wide piece of cardboard rolled to 4 inches in diameter. Tie the cardboard with string to keep the trap from opening and tie it to the lower trunk of a tree. A small amount of fish oil or bacon grease on the cardboard will make it more effective. Every couple days, check the trap and get rid of the earwigs inside.
Another efficient trap is a sour cream or cottage cheese container with some fish oil or bacon grease on the bottom of the container. Cut a small hole on the lid and bury the container in the ground so it’s at soil level. Every couple days, check the trap and get rid of the earwigs that have fallen inside.
Use insect sprays
Use one of the many non-chemical control products for insect pests. These products are not harmful to pets and humans. Spray the chemical around the base of plants in your yard or garden. Remember that these products only work until they are contacted with water. Reapply after watering or rain for best results.
If none of these tips prove to be effective, you can also spray an insecticide. Many organic and reduced-risk products are available for homeowners. Some are even safe to use with fruits and vegetables.
Carlos is a student at Utah Valley University and currently works as a news writing intern for KSL.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @Car1osBaquerizo or email him at carlosbaquerizo@ymail.com.
