And the winner, chosen by Latvian Entomological Society, is... the earwig (Dermaptera)!
Though ever so humble compared to last year's glamorous hoverfly, many are sorely afeared of the earwig due to its intimidating claws. The insect can indeed pinch but only does so in a pinch - when feeling danger.
Earwigs, like ourselves, are omnivores and will eat parasites from the garden while taking some bites out of the surrounding plants for a side salad. But they are great little contributors to the ecosystem and unless they develop some form of advanced mechanical technology and take over completely, they should be left to live in peace.
Fun fact: Latvia has so far seen five species of the earwig, though we live in hope perpetual that more may be discovered. The most common of those is Forficula auricularia, but entomologists invite the public to look for the rare Labidura riparia, mostly found near bodies of water.
You can report sightings of your friendly neighborhood earwigs on dabasdati.lv.
As the year progresses it will be increasingly clear that watching earwigs is more entertaining than sitting through another teen-oriented Netflix drama, so get with the cool kids today and (ear)wig out!
