Earwigs are dark, reddish-brown insects easily identified by the pincer-like projections on the tip of the abdomen called forceps. Both males and females have forceps. Earwigs are often transported great distances in potted plants, nursery stock, or other plant material. There are about 30 species of Earwigs in North America.
Earwigs are beneficial to gardeners because they consume aphids and other pests; the bugs also can eat the leaves of garden plants. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation Earwigs are not harmful to people.
Size: 1/4 to 1 1/4 inches.
