It’s never fun to encounter unexpected silverfish inside your home. While it’s important to practice proactive pest control measures so that you can quickly eradicate the problem, it’s also helpful to understand exactly what you’re dealing with so that you can take preventative steps to avoid future outbreaks. Here’s a little bit more about these pests.

4 Common Questions About Silverfish

What exactly are they?

Silverfish appear just as their name implies. They are almost sheer on one end, with a silvery finish on the tapered end that deepens on the larger end. They have scaly bodies and three tails that extend from the abdomen. Their unusual appearance alone makes them easy to detect, but they’re also notable for moving very quickly and are even capable of jumping.

Can they cause damage?

While pest control is crucial to maintain a clean home, you don’t need to worry about silverfish causing you or your family harm. However, they can cause physical damage to your belongings. If they find their way inside your closet, for example, they might eat through clothing fibers. Since they enjoy paper, they can also ruin wallpaper and photographs. And if they make their way into your books, they could also ruin those.

Why do they come inside?

Like other insects, silverfish are drawn to your home for warmth and comfort. They tend to gather in dark spots, especially those that are damp and are also attracted to food sources. They enjoy gnawing on objects like cardboard, paper, and silk, so they’re often found pressed between the pages of books, inside kitchens and bathrooms, and near furnaces and fireplaces. Even your home’s exterior can attract them, especially if there are obvious moisture sources available, like piles of wet leaves, damp firewood, and damaged gutters.

What are the preventative steps?

It’s difficult to contain silverfish on your own; that’s a job you should leave to a pest control expert. However, there are preventative measures you can take to avoid future outbreaks. The first is to manage moisture levels inside your home. Use a dehumidifier to create a less friendly environment for the pests, and clear away anything damp around your home. Remove cardboard boxes, newspaper piles, and anything that might serve as a hiding place. Finally, keep all food sealed so that they aren’t drawn to the odor.
 

Are you concerned about an influx of silverfish in your home? Don’t hesitate to contact the team at Coppermine’s Pest Control. Proudly serving clients throughout Northern GA and Murrayville, GA, the company provides a variety of services. Count on them for reliable pest control, along with mosquito treatment and even wildlife removal. Visit them online for more information, or call (888) 717-7035 to schedule an appointment.

We've been voted the best pest control company in Lumpkin County by The Dahlonega Nugget's "Best of Lumpkin" awards every year since 2008. We'd like to thank everyone who continually helps make this possible.