Silverfish

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are common nuisance pests that often find their way into homes and other buildings here in Florida. These pests have distinct teardrop-shaped bodies with three bristle-like appendages that extend from their back ends and antennae that are the same length as their bodies. One appendage continues straight back from the end of their bodies while the other two curve out to the left and right. Silverfish are wingless, but they are able to move quickly using a wriggling, fish-like motion. These common household invaders also have brown bodies that are covered in silvery-metallic colored scales, which gives them a unique shiny, pearlescent appearance, hence the name silverfish.

Are silverfish dangerous?

While silverfish pose no significant health threats to people or pets, they do feed on materials made of starches, glue, and cellulose. Because of this behavior, silverfish can become problematic inside homes by infesting and contaminating stored pantry items like cereal, dry pasta, flour, and dry pet food. Additionally, these nuisance pests can cause problems for you and your family by chewing through and damaging personal items such as books, paper, photos, boxes, upholstered furniture, carpets, and wallpaper.

Why do I have a silverfish problem?

Silverfish are most commonly found living outdoors in damp, dark areas. But if the weather becomes too hot or dry, they will move inside homes and other buildings to seek a dark, humid, and more comfortable environment. These pests also can be unknowingly introduced into homes in packages, boxes, potted plants, rugs, and used furniture.

Where are silverfish commonly found?

When living outside, silverfish are typically found nesting in moist and secluded areas such as underneath mulch, landscaping ties, fallen trees, and leaf litter. Since silverfish are nocturnal, they remain in their nesting spots during the day and emerge at night to forage for food. Once they find their way inside, silverfish prefer to nest in cool, damp areas and are usually found residing in basements, but will also nest in cabinets, underneath sinks, in attics, kitchens, crawl spaces, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

The best way to find and eliminate all the silverfish that are living and nesting throughout your home is to contact a pest control professional. At Reynolds Pest Management, our professionals will complete a pest analysis and evaluate points of access. Based on our findings, we'll create a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems with silverfish and other common household invaders. For professional silverfish control in Florida, give us a call at (844) 326-3100!

For more information about our residential and commercial pest control services that cover silverfish, reach out to us at Reynolds Pest Management today!

How can I prevent silverfish in the future?

Preventing problems with silverfish can be a daunting task, but the following tips can help to deter silverfish from choosing your property and home to invade:

• Reduce humidity levels inside your home through the use of dehumidifiers, air-conditioners, and ventilated fans.

• Make sure that gutters are directing rainwater away from the exterior of your home.

• Seal any cracks or gaps found in your home's foundation or exterior walls.

• Maintain a stone barrier between the foundation of your home and any surrounding soil or mulch.