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Earwigs

Earwigs In Kansas City

What are earwigs?

Earwigs, also known as “pincher bugs” got their name from an old European superstition that they would enter the ears of sleeping people and bore into their brain to lay their eggs.  There is, however, no proof of this.  These insects are easily recognized by their long, smooth bodies and a pair of “pinchers”, called cerci, located at the end of their abdomens.  The cerci on female earwigs tend to be fairly straight, while more curved on the males.  They are dark brown to reddish brown in color and can be either winged or wingless.  They are typically about 5/8th of an inch in length, but have been known to grow larger.  They are nocturnal insects that feed on decaying plant material as well as other insects including fleas and mites.

Why do I have them?

Most earwigs live outside and during the day hide in moist, shady places such as under rocks, logs or in mulch.  These nocturnal insects will make their way indoors, usually accidentally, when the conditions outside become too harsh, such as when the temperatures start to climb or if there is lack of moisture present. They gain access to our homes or businesses through weep holes in brick, cracks in the foundation or siding or by people carrying an object inside that was located outside, such as the newspaper, lawn furniture, children’s toys or plants.   Inside they will hide under rugs, in potted plants, in clutter on the floor or in damp basements.  

Are they dangerous?

Earwigs may try and pinch you if they feel threatened, but their pinch is not dangerous to humans or pets. They are typically considered a nuisance to home and business owners as they only occasionally invade.  

How do I get rid of earwigs?

Reducing sources of moisture in and around your property will help deter earwigs from entering your home or business, but earwigs may be difficult to control that’s why our service includes the necessary products and follow up visits for one fee. Our treatment methods consist of the following:

Initial Service - Detailed inspection of the interior and exterior of your home, then a targeted treatment of all areas where activity is present.  Each Initial Service includes the application of seven exclusive Pest Guard steps, designed to rid your home of unwanted pests and keep them away.

Follow Up - Quarterly interior/exterior or exterior-only services will be scheduled as part of our annual Integrated Pest Management program.  All Schendel Premium Care customers enjoy the benefit of our PestZero Guarantee. If pests return between visits, Schendel returns for free.

Can I do it myself?

Pest issues can be difficult to completely resolve without the help of a professional pest control company, such as Schendel.  Controlling earwigs with do-it-yourself products and methods is not usually effective and can be dangerous if applied or mixed improperly.  

How soon can you get here?

Schendel is 100% committed helping you ASAP. In most cases, we can respond the same or very next day.

Is the treatment safe?

Schendel uses the least amount of material as possible while still resolving your pest problem. We utilize natural products, baits, and mechanical means as a form of treatment as much as possible. When conventional materials are required, we follow very stringent guidelines for the use of the product so that it poses no threat to people, pets or plants. All products are found to be effective and registered by the EPA. Our service technicians will inform you of any specific safety measures that need to be taken.

How much does it cost?

We have standard pricing for all of our pest services, based on average size homes under 3500 square feet, and where the infestation does not require more than the standard number of services. We will always make you aware of any price changes before we start your service. Sign up for your FREE quote today and see how much you can save with Schendel.

What is the warranty?

Schendel offers customers an exclusive PestZero Warranty.  We will target the source and eliminate your pest problem.  If pests return, Schendel returns for free.  Guaranteed!

How can I prevent this in the future?

Pest problems can be difficult to prevent.  Many of our clients choose to continue service to keep pests out of their home. You can also check our Pest Prevention Tips here.

Where does Schendel service?

Schendel Pest Services provides residential and commercial earwig control and extermination services for Topeka, KS, Kansas City, KS, Lawrence, KS, Wichita, KS, Kansas City, MO, Springfield, MO, Phoenix, AZ, and Norman, OK.

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Testimonials

"We received excellent service the other day. We want you to know that we always receive excellent service each and every time the company makes a visit. We seldom see a bug and our termite and mice problem is completely gone. Thank you."

Greg and Vikki S.
Kansas City, MO

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