You notice it out of the corner of your eye.
A small insect crawling along the wall.
A few days later, you spot another one near the bathroom.
Then another appears in the kitchen.
Your first reaction is probably:
“Where did that come from?”
If the insect in the photo looks familiar, you’re not alone. It appears to be an earwig, a common household visitor that often causes concern because of its unusual appearance.
The good news?
Earwigs are generally harmless to humans. They don’t spread diseases, and despite popular myths, they do not crawl into people’s ears.
However, repeatedly finding earwigs indoors may be a sign that your home is providing conditions they find attractive—and that something deserves a closer look.
