Few earwigs successfully overwinter outdoors in northern states. The earwig diet is highly variable. European earwigs feed at night on the foliage of various flowers and garden plants. Most species prey on other insects and supplement their diet with decaying organic matter found in soil or garbage. In addition to consuming aphids, beetle larvae, and maggots, earwigs also eat seeds of grain.
Earwigs are essentially beneficial insects that prey on more harmful insects.
Though large populations may do direct damage to grass by feeding on it, earwigs are mainly a nuisance pest just because of their presence. If trapped or touched, earwigs pinch the offender with their forceps. Earwigs are nocturnal pests that hide from light and feed at night. In central and southeastern states, they overwinter in all stages under stones or debris or in other protected places. During cold winters, they are likely to invade greenhouses, sheds, and houses.