Earwigs overwinter as adults, living under bark, garden debris, rocks, and boards. They have incomplete metamorphosis, with nymphs similar to adults in structure and habits. Earwigs may be winged or wingless. This earwig, introduced into the United States from Europe in 1907, liked the look of things and decided to stay. Earwigs are nocturnal, preferring cool, moist, secluded areas under organic mulch, in crevices, under bark, and in garden debris.
Earwigs have chewing mouthparts.
They are omnivorous, eating dead and decaying vegetation, soft fruits like strawberries, stone fruits, leaves, petals, and pollen of living plants. They are particularly fond of seedlings. They may be found munching on corn silks, causing poor kernel formation. Earwig damage typically consists of small holes in leaves. Whole seedlings may disappear.