When it comes to pests, there are several species that people have common knowledge about. For example, most Worcester residents probably know that some roaches can fly, and all can spread illness-causing bacteria. With spiders, it’s understood they make webs and carry venom. Rodents have a reputation for coming out of holes and harboring germs. What about silverfish though?
Silverfish aren’t talked about as much as the aforementioned critters. A lot of folks wouldn’t even know what they're looking at if they see one running across the floor. That said, local home and business owners are likely clueless about how to identify and prevent them, what their risks are, and how Big Blue Bug Solutions can help. Today, we are here to answer some of your questions about this puzzling pest.
What, Exactly Are Silverfish?
Silverfish have a very misleading name. They don’t look like fish at all. They have tiny, carrot-shaped bodies that are 15/32 to ¾ of an inch long. They have multiple antennas, three tails, and around six legs. Their shiny, metallic skin is white, gray-brown, or silver-blue.
Are Silverfish Dangerous?
The short answer is no, but they are a nuisance. Silverfish inhabit food packages and destroy property. They prefer carbohydrates, starches, sugars, and grains. They also like to chew up paper materials and fabrics. You could find holes in your favorite silk clothing, upholstered furniture, bed linens, and books. Your best outfits could be ruined. Silverfish also feed on documents, wet clothes, wallpaper, book glue, and cellulose shampoo.
Not only will silverfish destroy items in your home, but they also attract other pests to your property, such as carpet beetles. While these insects don’t sting or bite humans, handling or coming in contact with them can result in an allergic reaction.
Why Do I Have Silverfish in My House?
Silverfish head inside properties searching for places that are quiet, dark, humid, and damp. Typically, torn window screens, foundation cracks, and gaps around doors are their entry points. From there, they hide in areas throughout your home including the kitchen, bathroom, garage, attic, or basement. They will also live in cardboard boxes or storage containers.
With these factors in mind, silverfish might be coming around because of moisture, warmth, or structural faults. Spotting damage inflicted by the bugs and their pepper-like feces are the chief signs of infestation. Don’t expect to catch them moving around your home because they’re nocturnal and run quickly. If you do happen to see one, start making pest control arrangements.
What Can You Do to Prevent Silverfish?
To keep silverfish out, you’ll have to be proactive about cleaning, property maintenance, proper food storage, and pest control. This might sound daunting, but any exertion and effort will be worth it. You can protect your skin, clothes, papers, and other belongings from silverfish with these actions:
- Check boxes, packages, and storage items before going inside with them.
- Routinely take out the trash, and wash your dishes.
- Food should be placed in airtight canisters.
- Control warmth by opening vents in your crawlspaces and using a dehumidifier. Humidity aids silverfish in their rapid reproduction.
- Fix any leaks, plumbing problems, and moisture issues.
- Don’t leave laundry wet for an extended period of time.
- Close cracks and openings around baseboards, walls, doors, windows, and utility lines.
- Call Big Blue Bug Solutions if you have other pests that silverfish cultivate or consume; they eat dead critters.
Despite your best efforts, you still may find yourself dealing with a silverfish infestation. Getting rid of these elusive insects can be challenging, and therefore, it's best to leave it up to the professionals.
What Can Big Blue Bug Solutions Do About Silverfish?
For over 80 years, Big Blue Bug Solutions has efficiently exterminated silverfish and other pests from Worcester homes and businesses. We pride ourselves in utilizing powerful and advanced treatments that are safe to use around humans and pets.
Our all-encompassing and comprehensive services are effective and affordable. They will eliminate current pests and keep them from returning. After our initial treatment, we conduct recurring preventative maintenance visits to make sure your home continues to stay pest-free.
Given our time in this industry and our membership with the National Pest Management Association, you can rest easy knowing that you're receiving the best in the pest control industry. Call today to schedule your free inspection!