If you’ve recently noticed speedy and startling little bugs when cracking open a book or food box from the pantry, you’ve likely come across the creatures known as silverfish. If these sightings have gone from rare to common, you may start to wonder how they can damage your home and whether or not it’s time to call pest control services. Familiarizing yourself with these bugs will help you better protect your home.

4 FAQ About Silverfish

What do they look like?

Silverfish are around 0.5 to 1 inch long. At birth, silverfish are white. As they age, they develop a silvery, metallic color. They’re covered in slippery scales to protect them from predators while also allowing them to fit into narrow spaces. Their abdomens taper at the end, and they wiggle around in a way that resembles flopping fish.

Where do they come from, and where are they most commonly found in a home?

In nature, silverfish are found in dark and damp places, like under rocks or plant litter. When they enter your home, they’ll likely look for places that create a similar environment.

You could come across them in your bathroom, kitchen, garage, basement, and attic. If you’re looking for a nesting area, check the dampest places and look out for their small, black droppings or empty shells, as they shed their skin. 

What kind of damage can they cause?

Silverfish eat starchy foods, so it’s common to find them in your pantry. They also eat wool, cotton, silk, and rayon, and could pose a threat to your closet. If you notice mysterious holes and stains on your clothing, you could have a silverfish problem.

They also enjoy paper products and often chew their way through books or feed on the paste in a book’s binding. But don’t worry—silverfish don’t bite or carry any dangerous diseases.

How can I prevent future infestations?

Silverfish often originate in the soil around your home. When the conditions outside get too dry or too wet, silverfish will seek more comfortable conditions inside your home. They’ll squeeze their way inside through cracks in your walls and foundation.

Seal up any cracks in your home as a preventative measure. Keeping paper products off the floor and sealing dry goods will also prevent silverfish from thriving and multiplying. However, if you’ve already noticed numerous silverfish in your home, call a pest control company. They’ll help you uncover the source of the problem before these creatures cause any expensive damage.

 

Keep your home silverfish-free with the expert services of Copter Pest Control in Enterprise, AL. These professionals offer thorough pest control services to keep unwanted guests out of your home or business. They specialize in removing bed bugs, rats, rodents, ants, fleas, and silverfish, among others. Their experienced team uses the latest techniques and environmentally friendly products to ensure their services are effective and safe. Whether you’re in the midst of an infestation or require preventative services, call (334) 347-2430. Discover more information online.