Easily recognized by its forceps-like tail appendage, the earwig is a major garden pest, as well as an annoying house pest. It is one of the few solitary insects that takes care of its young.
Earwigs feed on green plants and other vegetation, and do little damage indoors.
The pinch of their forceps is neither painful nor poisonous. The European earwig is common the eastern United States west to Illinois and is found in Oregon and Washington. This insect is long in shape and is recognized by the forcep-like cerci extending from the rear of its abdomen. On males, the forceps can be quite large and ornate. Earwigs are omnivores that will catch and eat other insects.