Species guide
European earwig
HarmlessForficula auricularia
How to recognise it
An elongated, glossy brown insect about 1.5 cm with a pair of prominent curved pincers (cerci) at the rear.
Is it dangerous?
Harmless — the old tale about crawling into ears is a myth. The pincers can pinch but rarely break skin, and it isn't venomous. It may nibble soft plants.
What to do
Reduce damp hiding places (mulch, debris) near the house if numbers bother you.
Recorded 70,339 times in the wild worldwide.
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