Striped earwigs are about one inch long, lighter in color than the ringed-legged earwig. It has pale stripes on the pronotum and front wings. It may also emit an objectionable odor when disturbed or crushed. These insects are largely nocturnal in habit and hide in protected sites during the day. At night they feed mainly on dead and decaying vegetable matter, and a few are predators.
Controls can vary.
If only one or two earwigs are seen over one to two months, simple removal by the homeowner is all that is necessary. In some situations however, large numbers may build up around structures and, if this is the case, the nuisance problem will be greatly magnified. This situation may occur in new subdivisions. Insecticide sprays containing chlorpyrifos, cyfluthrin, bendiocarb, diazinon, acephate, etc. can give effective control of this insect. Be sure to check the label of the product of choice.