There are 22 species of earwigs in North America, of which 12 have been introduced from the tropics or Europe. The first time it was observed in the United States was in Seattle in 1907. It is most recognizable by its distinctive set of pincers at the end of the abdomen. Earwigs may be winged or wingless.
Nymphs look much like adults except for color, being white to olive green to grayish brown.
Life cycle European earwigs generally overwinter as adults, entering the soil in October to form hibernation cavities one to three inches below the soil surface. Most cells include both a male and female. In early winter, the female lays a cluster of about 30 eggs. The eggs hatch in 2 to 3 months, depending on temperature, generally by the first week of April. The female protects and feeds the young for a month until the first molt.