The European earwig is the species most common to the Atlantic Provinces and can be found outside and inside the home. They enter a house with the help of a host - on humans, clothing, vegetables, newspapers, etc. The pincers of the male are curved whereas those of the female are straight. The female uses her pincers to protect herself and eggs from other insects, but they cannot harm humans. Earwigs have wings but they are rarely used to fly.
Earwigs wait for darkness to begin their search for food and shelter.
They enjoy dark, moist areas and feed on decaying plant and animal matter. They also cause slug-like damage to leaves, petals, fruit and vegetables. One way to determine if a slug or earwig is the cause of damage is to look for a slimy substance which slugs leave behind. Earwigs also damage vegetables by entering and enlarging existing holes. Earwigs can be beneficial in the garden if they can be prevented from damaging vegetables and flowers, and entering the household.