Earwigs are dark brown and/or reddish brown insects most easily recognized by the "pinchers" that appear at the end of their bodies. These pincher-like appendages, called cerci, are sensory organs, similar in function to antennae; they are also used, in some species, to hold prey while feeding, and during reproduction. Earwigs are usually between 10 and 14 millimeters long, and their cercus may be equal to one-third of the body length.

Earwigs feed on insects, fruits, plants, and even garbage. They prefer to nest in dark, damp places, such as cracks in building foundations, beneath pine straw or mulch beds, beneath sinks, or even within the buds of flowers. To control earwigs, applying pesticide to potential nesting areas, especially gardens and mulch beds, is usually all that is needed.

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