Earwigs are fascinating insects easily recognized by the pincers, or cerci, at the tip of their abdomen. These pincers aren't just for showthey help earwigs defend themselves, capture small prey, and even assist in folding their wings. Earwigs are mostly active at night, spending their days hiding in dark, damp places like under rocks, logs, or leaves. When they come out after sunset, they feed on a wide variety of things, from rotting plants and fungi to insects and even live plants. This flexible diet makes them both helpful decomposers and occasional garden pests.