The striped earwig (Labidura riparia) is one of the largest earwig species in North America, with adults reaching 3/4–1 inch in length. It is a native species widely distributed across the southern United States, including throughout Arizona. Adults are pale yellowish-brown to tan with two darker longitudinal stripes running down the back — the feature that gives the species its common name. The forceps are long and slender, less curved than those of the European earwig. The striped earwig has a distinctive and unpleasant defense mechanism: when threatened, it releases a foul-smelling secretion from abdominal glands that can stain skin and fabric. This chemical defense makes it one of the more memorable earwig encounters for Arizona homeowners. Striped earwigs are primarily predatory, feeding on other insects including aphids, mites, and small arthropods, which gives them some ecological value as natural pest controllers. They also feed on decaying organic matter. They are found in a wide range of habitats — desert washes, sandy soils, agricultural fields, irrigated lawns, and suburban gardens. Like other earwigs, they are nocturnal and hide in moist, dark locations during the day. They are strong fliers and are attracted to lights, which brings them into contact with homes.
👁Warning Signs
Large (3/4–1 inch) pale tan earwigs with two dark stripes on back. Foul odor when disturbed or crushed — a distinctive identification clue. Found in sandy soils, desert washes, and irrigated areas. Attracted to outdoor lights at night.
⚠Health & Property Risks
Foul-smelling defensive secretion can stain skin and fabric. Nuisance pest when entering homes. Generally beneficial as a predator of other insects. Not venomous or structurally damaging.
Prevention Tips
Reduce outdoor lighting or switch to yellow lights. Seal entry points around doors and windows. Reduce moisture and harborage near foundation. Clear debris from desert wash areas adjacent to property.
🛡Professional Treatment
Perimeter insecticide treatment for persistent invasions. Reduce attractants (lights, moisture, harborage). Generally not requiring aggressive treatment given its predatory benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions — Striped Earwig
The Striped Earwig (Labidura riparia) is pale yellowish-brown to tan with two darker longitudinal stripes; long slender forceps and typically measures 3/4–1 inch (one of the largest earwig species in Arizona). The striped earwig (Labidura riparia) is one of the largest earwig species in North America, with adults reaching 3/4–1 inch in length. It is a native species widely distributed across the southern Un.
The Striped Earwig is generally low-risk, but caution is still advised. Foul-smelling defensive secretion can stain skin and fabric. Nuisance pest when entering homes. Generally beneficial as a predator of other insects. Not venomous or structurally damaging.
In Arizona, striped earwigs are most often encountered in the following situations: Large (3/4–1 inch) pale tan earwigs with two dark stripes on back. Foul odor when disturbed or crushed — a distinctive identification clue. Found in sandy soils, desert washes, and irrigated areas. Attracted to outdoor lights at night.
The Striped Earwig is most active during: Year-round in Arizona's warm climate; most active spring through fall. Arizona's warm desert climate can extend activity periods compared to other states, so year-round vigilance is recommended in the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.
Reduce outdoor lighting or switch to yellow lights. Seal entry points around doors and windows. Reduce moisture and harborage near foundation. Clear debris from desert wash areas adjacent to property.
Perimeter insecticide treatment for persistent invasions. Reduce attractants (lights, moisture, harborage). Generally not requiring aggressive treatment given its predatory benefits.
Yes — earwigs can use their rear pincers (cerci) defensively if handled, but the pinch is generally harmless to adults and rarely breaks skin. They do not sting, are not venomous, and pose no significant medical risk. Their alarming appearance is far worse than their actual threat.
Dealing with Striped Earwig?
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