Silverfish may look like shiny little cockroaches, but they are actually a different type of bug. They thrive in humid, damp areas, so it is not unusual to spot them in bathrooms or basements. While these pests are tiny, they can create big problems. Extermination is an excellent option if you already have a silverfish problem, but, like with all pests, prevention is an even better strategy.
Identifying Silverfish
Because of their distinctive silver color, it is usually pretty easy to identify a silverfish. They are small, shiny, silver-gray insects. Their movements look a little like fish, and they have a bristletail, which is another name for them. They are wingless animals, usually ranging from .5 to .75 inches in length.
While silverfish do not bite humans or pets, they can create destruction in the household. You may see one dash across your line of sight or notice their skin remains waste or bite marks.
They love to eat foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins. So, it is not unusual to find them hiding in your pantry, craft rooms, or libraries, where they can snack on cereal, paper, photographs, insulation, and even clothing.
Silverfish Infestations
Like other pests, silverfish enter your home looking for a comfy place to live. They want warmth, food, and moisture. They are most likely to show up in areas with high humidity and little natural light, so basements are a favorite location. However, they can enter through tiny cracks and openings so that they can be anywhere in your home.
Silverfish do not always find their way into your home. They are hitchhikers, and you may inadvertently bring them inside in clothing, papers, books, boxes, or other packages. Once they get inside, they can eat their way through all kinds of things. Plus, these pests have a long life span. Once they get inside, it is essential to eradicate them.
Commercial Silverfish Solutions
Residential Silverfish Solutions
Treating Silverfish
Prevention is one of the best ways to keep silverfish out of your home. One helpful tactic is to eliminate sources of moisture, including any leaking pipes. Like other animals, silverfish need moisture to survive. Once they are in the house, you probably need the help of pest care pros. Silverfish are adept hiders, but professionals know how to look for their hiding spots and plan an effective pest control regime that will target current silverfish and help prevent future infestations.
Contact Horizon Pest Control for Help With Silverfish Control
If you spot a single silverfish, you probably have many more of them. They are notorious for hiding in small, dark, damp spaces. Plus, with a three-year lifespan, they can live—and multiply—in your building season after season. In fact, you could have a whole infestation before you ever see evidence of any of them. Trying to kill them on your own can be frustrating because they often hide in inaccessible areas where you may not think to look.
Contact Horizon Pest Control for a free pest consultation. We can identify whether you have silverfish, as well as determine if you have other pests. Then, we can create a custom pest control solution for your home or business. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
