Common Earwig vs Small Hive Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Earwig | Small Hive Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Forficula auricularia | Aethina tumida |
| Order | Dermaptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Forficulidae | Scarabaeidae |
| Size | 12-17 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, worldwide (introduced) | Africa, North America, Australia, Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Common Earwig
Nocturnal omnivore with distinctive forceps-shaped cerci. One of the few non-social insects to show maternal care — females guard and clean their eggs, and feed hatchlings.
Did You Know?
Female earwigs are devoted mothers — they guard their eggs for months, licking them regularly to prevent fungal infection, and continue caring for nymphs after hatching.
Small Hive Beetle
A small dark beetle native to sub-Saharan Africa that is a serious pest of honeybee colonies. It has spread to North America, Australia, and parts of Europe.
Did You Know?
Larvae can destroy an entire honeybee colony by consuming all the stored honey and pollen.