The name “earwig” conjures up a rather unsettling image, doesn’t it? It’s a name that seems to directly imply these creatures have a particular fondness for human ears. This has led to a long-standing, albeit completely unfounded, myth about these insects crawling into our ears while we sleep. But is there any truth to this creepy connotation? Let’s delve into the real story behind the name “earwig” and separate fact from fiction about these often-misunderstood insects.
Debunking the Ear Myth: Do Earwigs Really Go in Ears?
The short answer is no, despite their name, earwigs are not known for infesting ears. The origin of the name “earwig” actually traces back to Old English. It stems from the words “ear wicga“, which when translated, roughly mean “ear wiggler” or “ear creature.” This archaic name, however, is where the myth began, falsely suggesting these insects are prone to wriggling into ears. Even more alarmingly, folklore once perpetuated the terrifying notion that earwigs could burrow into the brain and lay eggs there. Rest assured, this is entirely untrue. Earwigs have absolutely no interest in making human ears, or brains, their home. Isolated incidents of insects being found in ears are rare and can happen with various small bugs, not just earwigs. It’s a case of mistaken identity and an unfortunate name that has fueled centuries of misconception.
What Exactly Are Earwigs? Identifying Features
So, if they aren’t ear invaders, what are earwigs really like? Adult earwigs are typically brownish-black in color and measure about three-quarters of an inch in length. One of their most distinctive features is the pair of forceps-like pincers at their rear end. These forceps differ slightly between males and females; males possess curved forceps, while females have straighter ones. Interestingly, earwigs do have wings – a delicate pair of rear wings that neatly fold under short, hardened forewings. When opened, these wings resemble tiny fans. Despite having wings, earwigs are not frequent fliers, preferring to scurry around on foot.
Within the United States, there are approximately 22 species of earwigs. Of these, only a small fraction, about four or five species, are considered household pests. These are the types that occasionally wander into our homes, seeking out dark and secluded spots for shelter – certainly not human ears, though.
Where Do Earwigs Actually Live? Habitat and Behavior
Earwigs are creatures that prefer to keep out of sight during the day. Their preferred habitats are dark, damp, and sheltered locations. Outdoors, you can find them hiding under leaves, in piles of decaying organic matter, beneath stones, in garden mulch, under loose bark on trees, and within cracks and crevices in tree trunks. They thrive in moist environments, which is why you’ll often find them in gardens and around vegetation.
It’s when their secluded habitats are disturbed, perhaps by gardening activities or general outdoor disruptions, that earwigs might venture indoors in search of new hiding places. Once inside, they are sometimes mistakenly identified as cockroaches due to their similar size and coloration. However, earwigs are quite different in their behavior and habits. They are primarily scavengers, emerging at night to feed. Their diet consists of decaying organic material, making them beneficial in breaking down detritus. They also consume a variety of living plant matter, including grass, plants, flowers, berries, shrubs, and moss. Furthermore, earwigs are also predatory, feeding on other insects, both living and dead, such as caterpillars and the eggs of moths and other garden pests.
Earwig Reproduction: Eggs and Nests (definitely not in your ear!)
Earwig reproduction further emphasizes their disconnect from the ear myth. Earwig eggs are small, oval-shaped, and pearly white in color. Females lay these eggs in batches ranging from 30 to 60, creating underground nests to protect them. These nests are located well away from any possibility of human ears, typically in soil or decaying matter. Egg-laying occurs from fall through spring, ensuring the next generation of earwigs will continue their scavenging and beneficial roles in the ecosystem – far removed from the fictional ear-invading reputation their name might suggest.
In conclusion, the name “earwig” is a misnomer rooted in old language and unfounded folklore. These insects are not interested in human ears, and the myth of them burrowing into brains is entirely false. Earwigs are common scavengers that play a role in our environment, and understanding their true nature helps dispel the creepy myths associated with their misleading name.
