Silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) live on land rather than in aquatic settings despite their name. The body of a silverfish appears metallic with fish-like scales, and it moves in a wiggling manner that many people think is similar to the movement of a fish. In natural outdoor environments, silverfish often go unnoticed; however, homeowners often experience a startling response when encountering them indoors.
Are you wondering how silverfish get in your house? Seeking assistance from a licensed pest controller is the best course of action. A professional Houston pest control company maintains a knowledgeable staff that knows the best way to get rid of silverfish and various silverfish prevention methods.
How To Tell If It's Silverfish In Your Home
As largely nocturnal creatures, silverfish may remain hidden during the day. The somewhat flat body of a silverfish typically ranges from ½ to ¾ of an inch in length, has antennae and three bristly appendages extend from the tail.
Adult females generate eggs, which they might position in any crevices that exist in a home.
What do young silverfish look like? The offspring usually emerge from eggs in approximately two to three weeks. Young silverfish appear in whitish colors with a body that otherwise resembles a smaller version of the adults. The development process may extend for four weeks, and adults usually live for more than two years.
The Damage Silverfish Can Do In Your Home
Are silverfish harmful to pests? Based on their rather bizarre appearance, homeowners often mistakenly assume that silverfish represent a substantial danger. In reality, silverfish are one of the many nuisance pests that enter homes—not a true threat to human health. The primary concerns regarding silverfish are their potential for damaging property inside your home.
Silverfish may contaminate sources of food such as dried goods in cupboards or pantries. The diet of a silverfish is diverse and may include flour, cereals, dead insects, paper, cardboard, and glue. Evidence of silverfish activity might include damaged photos, clothing, books, and other materials.
Silverfish Prevention Tips For Around The House
Local homeowners should acknowledge the various best practices that will help limit the likelihood of encountering silverfish as follows:
- Although silverfish ordinarily are not thought of as a pantry pest, store dried foods in cupboards and pantries in durable, sealed containers that will prevent access.
- Limit excessive moisture and humidity indoors by properly ventilating areas and using a dehumidifier when necessary.
- Limit water and moisture in the exterior area near the structure by keeping gutters and downspouts clear and promptly repairing leaky spigots or hoses.
- Closely inspect the lower exterior area of the structure for any cracks that might serve as entry points and fill them with caulk or sealant.
- Other good exclusionary measures include fixing torn window screens and placing sweeps on the base of exterior doors.
Keep in mind that regularly performing a combination of two or more of these preemptive strategies will increase the likelihood of effectively preventing these unwanted pests.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of Silverfish In Your Home
Speaking with a pest control professional is the best way of responding to problems involving silverfish.
The leaders of All-Safe Pest & Termite recognize the importance of delivering top-quality customer service, which is evident based on the consistent volume of new customer referrals that result from word-of-mouth recommendations from past and existing clients. Further, we maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
We provide ongoing residential pest control programs for clients seeking year-round protection from harmful pests. Our basic Safe Select Pest Control plan includes treatment visits that prevent and eliminate invaders such as ants, cockroaches, fleas, stinging insects, and others. Our Protection Plus Pest & Termite Control plan includes the majority of services offered in our basic plan in addition to a comprehensive termite control plan and several other valuable treatment options.
We look forward to speaking with you.