earwig

Description:

Forficula auricularia; Family - Forficulidae app. 10-15cm. I didn't squash one of these, but recall from my youth that they had a foul smell when squashed.

Habitat:

Found these tucked in under the new tiny leaves of out sunflowers. I only saw they ere bugs when I started trying to take pictures. Hide in day under wood, debris, etc. Feed on aphids, as well as plant materials and insects. Possible garden nuisance. Beneficial since they eat aphids. Though winged, seldom fly. Most active spring, fall.

Notes:

Everywhere I have lived sunflowers are one of the best plants for animal and insect attraction. They are hardy, bloom for weeks, have huge numbers of seeds, and provide many niches for bugs to reside or use.