Silverfish Identification & Prevention

What are silverfish?

Silverfish have the knack for startling people as they catch them from the corner of their eye, wriggling at a fast-pace from one area of a room to another. These unwanted intruders have high moisture needs and seek out indoor and outdoor environments that meet those needs.

You can identify these insects by the three-pronged appendage that extends off their hind end. This appendage is also why they're called bristle-tails. They are wingless and have a carrot-shaped body that is brown and covered with metallic scales. Silverfish are also known for having antennae as long as their body and moving in a wriggling fish-like manner.

Are silverfish dangerous?

Silverfish are not dangerous. They don't cause people any significant health risks, nor do they damage structures. But, none the less, silverfish are unwelcome pests. Along with being annoying to have in our homes, their feeding habits can damage our personal belongings and contaminate the food we have stored in our pantries. Things that silverfish feed on and damage include:

• Clothing
• Curtains
• Wallpaper
• Books
• Upholstered furniture
• Flour, pasta, potatoes, dried meats, and other dry goods

Why do I have a silverfish problem?

Unfortunately, having a problem with silverfish sometimes indicates an underlying moisture issue around your home. Often, their very high moisture needs mean they are attracted to homes with water damage. Silverfish also move indoors in hot or dry weather conditions. This weather prompts them to move inside seeking out cooler and more humid conditions.

Where will I find silverfish?

After moving inside, silverfish will make a beeline for the most humid areas of a home. They typically become a problem in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Silverfish move inside through cracks in the foundation, drains, vents, and under exterior doors.

Outside, silverfish hide in damp soil in dark, quiet areas, such as under mulch, in garden areas, under logs, and in areas of dense landscaping. They also like to hide under trash cans and recycling bins.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

The first step you should take to get rid of silverfish from your property is to contact a professional. At Admiral Pest Control, our professionals know the steps needed to eliminate silverfish and prevent a re-infestation.

We are our area's oldest family-run pest control company, and we take care of all our customers as if they are part of our family. If you are looking to rid your southern Los Angeles County or Orange County residential or commercial property of pests, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Admiral Pest Control. Call us today to learn more about our silverfish control services!

How can I prevent silverfish in the future?

Silverfish and other pests are difficult to prevent, so the best prevention tip is always to partner with a trained and experienced professional. Also, use the following tips from Admiral Pest Control to help avoid problems with silverfish:

• Keep dry good in your home stored in plastic or glass containers with locking lids.
• Store your pictures, books, and other paper items in plastic storage boxes instead of cardboard boxes.
• Keep your home as dry as possible to avoid attracting these moisture-loving pests. Use dehumidifiers, ventilating fans, and air conditioners in your home to accomplish this.
• Create a barrier between any mulch and your home's foundation.
• Store garbage, recycling, and compost bins up off of the ground and away from the outside walls of your house. They often hide in the soil under them.
• Repair any openings in your home's foundation.
• Place door sweeps on all exterior doors.