Measuring between 5-25 millimeters in length, earwigs are slender, crawling insects that eat insects and plants. There are about 25 different species of earwigs that are found, so it is quite common to see different kinds of earwigs in even a single location. Around the world, there are about 2000 different species of earwigs and these insects are found in different countries such as Australia, North and South America, New Zealand and other parts.

Most earwigs have flat bodies, which allow them to fit themselves into tight spaces. Although they are usually less than 25 millimeters in length, some species such as the Australian Giant Earwig can even measure up to 50 millimeters. Another species, the Saint Helena Earwig is considered extinct and used to measure around 78 millimeters. The pincers found on the abdomens of these insects are used to capture their smaller prey or to defend themselves against bigger predators. Most species have a pair of wings and although they are capable of flying, they usually don’t.

Although earwigs are not primarily social creatures, the mother earwig nurtures its young, even giving up food to protect the eggs and fighting against predators to protect them. Mother earwigs also clean the eggs at frequent intervals to keep them from developing fungi. Once the eggs hatch, the nymphs feed on the casing of their eggs and are then fed on regurgitated food by their mother while nesting under her until they reach the stage of their second molt. In some cases, the mother meets her death while taking care of her young.