THE EUROPEAN" EARWIG AND ITS CONTROL, 



legs and a dull-brown head (fig. 3). There are four larva stages 

 which gradually approach the adult in size and color. The change 

 from the fourth larva stage to the adult form takes 

 place about July 18. 



When first hatched the larvae leave their under- 

 ground nests, most noticeably on warm nights about 

 two hours after dark. They swarm over the ground, 

 but usually stay within 2 or 3 feet of the entrance 

 to their nest. On cold nights few can be found. 

 As they grow older they are active even on cold, 

 wet nights. 



Young larvae feed on very tender green shoots 

 such as clover and grass, and possibly portions of 

 grass roots. Later they feed extensively on green 

 shoots such as Lima-bean (fig. 4) or dahlia plants (fig. 5 in compari- 

 son with fig. 6). By July 1 dahlia buds begin to appear and the 

 blossoms of sweet William and early roses are plentiful. These are 

 damaged greatly by the young earwigs. The bases of the petals and 

 the stamens are eaten and the old taste for green shoots disappears 

 if favorable flowers are near. 



Fig. 3. — Larva of 

 European earwig. 

 Enlarged twice. 

 (Original.) 



Fig. 4. — Lima bean plant partially eaten by young earwigs. (Original.) 

 THE ADULT. 



The adult is rich reddish brown, with the wing covers and legs 

 dull yellow brown, and the wings completely developed. From head 



