Earwigs vs. Ants: Know the Difference and How to Treat Each Pest

When it comes to creepy crawlers invading your home or yard, ants and earwigs are two of the most common—and misunderstood—pests we deal with as a local pest control company in Van Wert. While both can become unwelcome visitors, their behaviors, habits, and the treatments used to control them are quite different.

Let’s break down the key differences between these pests and how our approach to pest control varies depending on which one we’re targeting.

Appearance and Behavior: Earwigs vs. Ants

Earwigs are easy to identify thanks to the forceps-like pincers on their back end. Despite their intimidating look, they're generally harmless to humans. They are nocturnal and prefer dark, moist areas like mulch beds, under rocks, or in basements. Earwigs are scavengers and often feed on dead insects and decaying plant material.

Ants, on the other hand, are social insects that live in large colonies. They are highly organized and constantly on the hunt for food. You’ll typically find them forming long trails indoors or outdoors as they work together to bring food back to their nest.

How They Enter the Home

• Earwigs sneak into homes when outside conditions become too dry or too wet. They often wander inside by accident through cracks, gaps, or poorly sealed doors.

• Ants actively seek out food and water, especially in your kitchen or pantry. Once one ant finds a food source, it lays down a trail for the rest of the colony to follow.

  
  

Signs of Infestation

• Earwig infestations are usually mild. You might spot a few near drains, in the basement, or under piles of debris outdoors.

• Ant infestations are more noticeable. You’ll see trails of ants, small dirt mounds near your foundation, or ants coming in and out of crevices in your home.

  
  

Treatment Differences

Here’s where your pest control strategy really matters:

Earwig Control

• Moisture control is key. Earwigs love damp areas, so reducing water around your foundation and inside your home is essential.

• We often treat mulch beds, cracks in foundations, and use a perimeter spray to create a barrier around your home.

• Indoor treatment is minimal and usually focused in basements or damp areas.

Ant Control

• Baiting is a primary method for ants, especially if they’re indoors. It allows the workers to carry poison back to the colony and queen.

• We identify the species (e.g., odorous house ants, pavement ants, or carpenter ants) to determine whether baiting, barrier treatment, or direct nest elimination is most effective.

• Ongoing treatments may be necessary to control larger colonies and prevent new infestations.

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

• Seal cracks and entry points around doors, windows, and foundations.

• Keep food sealed and clean up crumbs or spills right away.

• Reduce moisture around your home’s foundation by fixing leaks and improving drainage.

• Maintain your lawn and keep mulch away from the base of your home to limit hiding spots for earwigs.

Local Pest Control You Can Trust

Whether you’re dealing with a few nuisance ants or a surprise earwig invasion, ProGuard Pest Control is your local pest control company here in Van Wert, ready to help. We offer customized treatments that target the source of the problem and keep pests away for good.

If you're searching for pest control near me, give us a call. We’ll identify the pest, explain your options, and provide a reliable treatment plan that works for your home.

Call today for a free quote and keep your home pest-free—inside and out!