Lesser Earwig vs Spine-Tailed Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lesser Earwig | Spine-Tailed Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Labia minor | Doru aculeatum |
| Order | Dermaptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Spongiphoridae | Forficulidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lesser Earwig
The smallest European earwig and one of the few that readily flies. It is often found in compost heaps and manure piles where it feeds on fly larvae.
Did You Know?
Despite its tiny size, this earwig is one of the best fliers in the order and is regularly attracted to artificial lights.
Spine-Tailed Earwig
A slender earwig found in cornfields and grassy habitats across eastern North America. It shelters in the leaf whorls of corn and other tall grasses.
Did You Know?
Farmers consider this earwig beneficial because it preys heavily on corn earworm eggs and aphids in crop fields.