Why Did My Venus Flytrap Turn Black After Eating an Earwig?

Feeding a Venus flytrap by hand can be rewarding, but it carries risks. If a trap turns black after consuming an insect, the cause is usually one of two things: the prey was too large, or the trap was near the end of its natural lifespan.

Flytraps aren't picky eaters—they'll snap shut on anything that triggers their hairs. However, if an insect doesn't fit comfortably inside the trap, the seal remains incomplete. Bacteria and fungi enter, leading to rot and a blackened trap. Earwigs, with their elongated bodies and pincers, often protrude, preventing a tight seal.

Alternatively, each trap only functions for about two months before dying back naturally. If the trap was already old, the meal simply coincided with its scheduled demise. Look for fresh, bright green growth emerging from the center of the plant—that's a sign of health.

Hand-feeding isn't necessary. Outdoor flytraps catch plenty of prey on their own. If you do supplement, choose small, soft-bodied insects like flies or small crickets. For comprehensive care guidelines, consult the Venus flytrap care sheet at cobraplant.com/caresheets.