The Myth about Earwigs Crawling into Ears Busted

The persistent myth about earwigs crawling into people's ears and eating their ear wax—or even worse, feeding on the brain—is debunked here. This article clarifies the misconceptions surrounding the behavior of earwigs, providing accurate and evidence-based information.

Understanding Earwigs

Earwigs are generally harmless insects. They are part of the order Dermaptera, and are known for their distinctive cerci—a pair of forceps-like appendages on their rear end. However, the myth that earwigs crawl into ears and cause harm is largely a fabrication. Let's explore why this myth persists and the truth behind it.

Myth vs. Reality

According to a widely cited source, Wikipedia, the idea that earwigs crawl into ears and eat ear wax is false. “Earwigs are generally harmless bugs that are not known to climb into ears.”

While any small insect, including earwigs, can potentially crawl into the ear canal, there is no credible evidence to support the claim that they stay there or cause any significant harm. Many people share anecdotes or personal experiences, such as a neighbor who claimed earwigs got into her socks and stung her feet, but these are not backed by scientific evidence. Interestingly, Scientific American notes that “the myth persists despite no scientific evidence backing it.”

Why the Myth Persists

The myth likely originated from the earwigs' name, which may have been misleading. The name 'earwig' comes from an old myth that believed the insects could crawl into people's ears, which is why they are called 'earwigs.' This name, however, is a mistranslation of the Latin word with which they were originally named.

Another contributing factor is the fear of small insects in general. People may be more prone to believe such myths because small creatures are easily visible and can cause a transient discomfort, leading to unfounded fears. This is also a common reason for people to believe myths about other insects like spiders and ants.

Earwig Behavior

Earwigs prefer moist, dark environments. They can be commonly found in places such as under rocks, in garden debris, and inside boxes. Some species use their forceps to defend themselves or grasp prey, but these are not adapted for climbing into ears. There are over 2,000 species of earwigs, but only a few dozen species are found near human habitats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is true that small insects can occasionally crawl into the ear canal, the idea that earwigs specifically do so and harm humans is unfounded. Earwigs are not known to feed on the brain or lay eggs in the ear canal. Understanding the true nature of these insects can help dispel old myths and provide peace of mind. If you ever experience any discomfort in your ear, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.