Earwigs are a red-brown to black color and generally are about 1-1/2 inches in length. They are easy to identify by the two pincher like appendages (forceps) protruding from their abdomen. They are active at night and some species are attracted to lights in large numbers. During the day they usually find shelter beneath stones, boards, sidewalks, or debris. Earwigs are rapid runners and migrate short distances in this manner.
Earwigs are scavengers that feed on dead plants and animal matter. Their eggs are laid in small batches or clutches in a chamber two to three inches beneath the soil surface. The mother guards the eggs and the newly hatched young. After the first molt, the young leave the nest and fend for themselves. The young usually mature in one season. Most species in Wisconsin have one generation per year.