Springtails, centipedes, and numerous other creepy-crawly pests have something in common: when they infest homes, they tend to dwell in its darkest, dampest parts, like poorly ventilated attics, basements, crawlspaces, underneath sinks, and even inside houseplants. Here are some common and occasional invaders that prefer dark, damp places in New Jersey and New York homes.
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It’s not unusual to find these crickets in utility rooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, and attics if conditions are damp enough. Interestingly, these crickets don’t have the organs to produce a classic cricket “chirp,” nor do they have wings, but they can jump to run away or startle predators. Though cave crickets don’t pose a threat to humans, they can damage textiles like clothes, curtains, and upholstery if they invade a home.
While some pests go dormant during winter, you can spot springtails year-round. They’re named for the way they “spring” into the air, launching themselves around using a catapult system. Despite their nickname, “snow fleas,” these pests don’t feed on the blood of humans and other animals. Instead, they eat plant roots and rotting plant matter. Springtails have been known to seek shelter in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and near air conditioners’ condensate drain lines.
Fun fact: a centipede will have anywhere from 15 to 177 pairs of legs, and the number of pairs they have will always be an odd number. These bugs are most active at night and prefer excessively damp, humid areas, like trash bins, muggy bathrooms, basements, crawlspaces, and overwatered houseplants. Centipedes aren’t considered dangerous to humans, but their venom makes their bites extremely painful.
Silverfish look a lot like little silvery fish out of water (if you discount the six legs). They tend to inhabit humid places like bathrooms, attics, and basements and can do a very good job of staying hidden for a long time. Although they don’t bite people, silverfish can cause significant damage to paper goods, including books, paperwork, and wallpaper, as well as clothing and pantry items like flour.
At Horizon Pest Control, we have over 50 years of experience controlling common and occasional pest invaders in New Jersey and New York. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more about how we can help you: (201) 447-2530.
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