Earwigs are the pincered insects that startle homeowners in damp areas. They don't harm people, but large numbers indoors usually signal a moisture problem.
Elongated, reddish-brown insects (about 1/2"–1") with a pair of forceps-like pincers at the rear. Active at night and drawn to dark, damp spaces.
What attracts them: Moisture and damp organic matter — mulch, leaf litter, damp basements, and the space under pots and stones.
For recurring indoor activity — it usually points to a moisture or entry issue we can correct at the source.
