Earwig

Earwigs are dark, reddish brown insects which are easily identified by the pincer-like projections on the tip of the abdoman, called forceps.

Earwigs prefer moist, dark areas. They are most active at night and seek shelter during the day. They are commonly found in mulch, organic debris, cracks and crevices, under flower pots and boards. They frequently enter the house and are often found in the basement or crawlspace. They feed on living, or dead, plant material and some insects. Generally they are not destructive.