Silverfish are pests that most homeowners probably don't think about. In fact, this may be your first time hearing about them. They are "occasional invaders," meaning they are likely to infest your house in response to some external change, often weather-related, rather than of their own initiative. Still, it's important you know how to identify and deal with these pests properly, as they can cause some damage when left unchecked. Professional pest control in South Portland is brought to you by Big Blue Bug Solutions. We're here to help you with all of your pest control needs.
What Do Silverfish Look Like?
First, let's take a look at silverfish themselves. What are silverfish, and what do they look like? Silverfish are small insects found throughout the United States and named for their appearance, which is often silvery or metallic, and their rapid movements resemble a swimming fish. They are sometimes called "bristletails" because of the three small antennae-like appendages on the rear end of their bodies. Silverfish are usually about three-fourths of an inch long, and their bodies have a tapered oval shape similar to a carrot. Though they range in color from silver to brown, they usually have shiny scales. Silverfish have six legs and two thin antennae. Silverfish are typically attracted to moist, humid areas, so warm houses with standing water in or near them are major attractants for silverfish. Now that we've learned how to identify silverfish, let's answer another important question; are silverfish harmful?
Silverfish Are More Of A Nuisance Than A Danger
The good news is that silverfish tend to hide from humans and have no ability to bite or sting. Silverfish control is still important, however. Since they are good at hiding, the damage they do can go unnoticed, too. Silverfish will eat a wide variety of things, but their diet includes paper products, clothing, glue, and certain foods, such as flour and oats. They can cause damage to wallpaper, upholstery, and other areas of your home if not controlled. So what can you do to keep silverfish out of your South Portland home? Let's look at some simple steps that will help mitigate these pests.
Ways To Prevent Silverfish Infestations In Your Home
The best way to handle any pest infestation is to discourage it from happening in the first place.Silverfish in South Portland are attracted to moist, humid environments, feed on paper and clothing products, and are good at hiding.
With these things in mind, here are some practical tips to keep silverfish away:
- Get rid of excess moisture in your house, paying special attention to any standing water or damaged wood.
- Search for any openings or gaps around the exterior of your home and close them up.
- Don't store paper products in areas like attics or basements.
- Store food items in tightly sealed containers.
While these tips should help reduce the chances your home will attract silverfish, they won't do much if you already have an infestation. For effective silverfish removal, it's best to call in professionals.
The Key To Getting Rid Of Silverfish In South Portland
The best way to get rid of silverfish in South Portland is to contact Big Blue Bug Solutions. We have over 80 years of experience in the industry, and we've dealt with every kind of pest there is. We offer the most effective and responsible pest control solutions in New England. We guarantee the effectiveness of our services and even provide free inspections, so you'll know what you're getting before you commit to anything. Call Big Blue Bug Solutions today for help with silverfish and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in South Portland.