How to Kill Pincher Bugs (Earwigs)
Earwigs, comprising the insect order Dermaptera, are also commonly referred to as pincher bugs. Although earwigs are not poisonous, they do have pincers. Female pincers are straight, while male pincers are curved. If you come into contact with an earwig, or try to capture one, you could get pinched. Killing earwigs on your property if you have pets or small children who might view them as playthings is advisable. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Clean several old tuna fish cans and fill them half full with vegetable oil. Set them around the house or garden where you noticed earwigs. The earwigs will crawl in and drown in the oil. Replace daily until you no longer see earwigs.
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2
Vacuum up the earwigs with your vacuum hose. Immediately empty the vacuum bag, place it in a trash bag and toss in an outside trash can.
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Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around your yard. Diatomaceous earth is an all-natural product that will not harm pets or children. It will, however, pierce the exoskeleton of the earwig. This causes the earwig to dehydrate and die.
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Resort to using an insecticide if the other options don't work. According to Utah State University, permethrin, bifenthrin, carbaryl and malathion are effective against earwigs. Spray the earwigs directly, and then spray all possible entry points around your home.
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Tips & Warnings
Eliminate areas of moisture around your home. Moisture attracts earwigs.
Caulk around windows, doorways and holes in the foundation to prevent earwigs from entering your home.
Don't pick up earwigs with your bare hands or you risk getting pinched.
If you have children or pets, use insecticide with caution, heeding warnings on the label, or do not use.
