Silverfish just may be the world’s most interesting pests. Now, don’t get us wrong. We are not here to convince you that silverfish are cool, just that they aren’t boring to study. Plus, with a bit of research, you will be better equipped to keep these annoying home invaders out of your living areas.
If preventing these pests is what you would like to do, here are some things you should know, including why silverfish invade Worcester homes in the first place.
Every Fact You Need To Know About Silverfish
Most people are not experts on silverfish. Assuming that you are not either, here are a few facts about these pests, starting from the most obvious and finishing with the most obscure fact we could find:
Fact #1
Silverfish are silver and look like small fish. Further identify these pests by the three long bristle-like appendages that protrude from their rear, their six legs, and their two long antennae.
Fact #2
Silverfish do not have wings but are capable of running extremely fast for their size. Just how fast are these pests? Some have been able to outrun centipedes and spiders.
Fact #3
Silverfish are most commonly found in moist areas with low to no foot traffic. Inside homes, these pests hide inside cracks and crevices around bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, attics, basements, and garages.
Fact #4
Unlike many other insects that only shed their skin up to the point of adulthood, silverfish continue to shed up until the day they die. Finding tiny metallic silver scales around your living areas is a good way to know where these pests are around.
Fact #5
A silverfish can live up to a year without food and will consume strange items like paper, cardboard, glue, and even toothpaste.
Fact #6
Silverfish are considered by many to be the most ancient insects on the planet.
The Reason Silverfish Invade Homes
Outside of nature, silverfish have to work hard to survive. This is not true within human dwellings. Our homes are perfect for these invading pests. Our living areas offer them the moisture they need to thrive. Temperatures do not drop or rise to dangerous levels. Food is around every corner. And most natural predators aren’t present to cause them harm. Once inside, silverfish cozy up in secluded areas, damage items like books, newspapers, and cardboard, and infest boxes of stored food where they lay their eggs. We don’t know about you, but these sure sound like good reasons to want silverfish to stay outside.
Eight Silverfish Prevention Tips
- Use a dehumidifier indoors, especially on humid days.
- Eliminate sources of water build-up in and around your property.
- Wipe down sinks and bathtubs after using them.
- Identify and seal gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation, using a caulking gun.
- Repair damage to window/door screens, weatherstripping, and door sweeps.
- Keep dry food stored away inside airtight containers.
- Store clothing in dry areas.
- Clean your home regularly of food messes and drink spills.
What To Do If Silverfish Invade
If you do not have time to prevent silverfish on your own or have started noticing these pests inside your Worcester home, do not hesitate to involve the experts at Big Blue Bug Solutions. Our team of dedicated pest control professionals has the tools, experience, and time to quickly handle any pest problems you are up against. Call us today for your quote and to schedule a thorough pest inspection for your Worcester home. We will make sure you get the care you deserve.