Earwigsare primarily nocturnal insects, hiding in crevices and debris duringthe day. They feed mainly on decaying plant matter, though a select feware predaceous. The name “earwig” comes from an old superstition thatthey get stuck in people’s ears. This myth is completely untrue.

Earwigs can be recognized by their characteristic rear pincers. Bothmales and females have pincers, however the males’ are larger and morerounded. These pincers are used for defense, offense, and preymanipulation.

Only the European earwig has been found at Coal Oil Point Reserve.

Earwig Photos (click to enlarge)
European earwig (male) Foricula auricularia
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