Are slender, elongate somewhat flattened insects that are nocturnal in habit and hide during the day in cracks or crevices, under bark or in debris? They feed mainly on dead or decaying vegetable matter. The name "Earwig" derived from an old superstition that these insect enter people's ears. This belief is entirely without foundation. Earwigs do not bite but, if handled will attempt to pinch you with their cerci. Easily recognized by pincers at end of body.