Crossword Genius

What happens in autumn, but not at first, to earwig (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eavesdrop

'earwig' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for eavesdrop that I've seen before include "Listen secretly to others' conversations" , "Snoop" , "Overhear" , "spy" , "Listen to others' conversation" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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