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Silverfish are small silver insects with bizarre appearances, including scales and antennae that resemble fish. Believe it or not, these insects can be found in New England! Their bodies are flat and oval-shaped and approximately ¾ of an inch long, with two antennas and three tails. These pests prefer the dark and hide during the daytime to avoid sunlight. If exposed to sunlight, they will quickly escape to a dark location. 

 

Female silverfish are constantly laying eggs once they reach their adult stage. They usually lay their eggs in crevices and small cracks around homes and properties that hatch within 3 weeks. You can tell the difference between young silverfish and ault ones by their white color and small size. A fun fact about silverfish is that they can live without food for up to a year and depend on high humidity to live!

 

Common Locations

Silverfish grow mainly in dark and damp locations. Larger populations are found in newer buildings that include wet brick and stone. Aside from these places, do not be surprised to find them within basements, sinks, bathtubs, closet shelves, and behind baseboards, bookcases, windows, and doorframes.

 

What Do They Eat?

Did you know that silverfish are chewers and general feeders? Their preferred diet consists of carbohydrates and protein. Their preferred choice of food is just as bizarre as their appearance. Some examples of food include flour, rolled oats, dried meat, paper, cardboard, books, glue, vegetables, cereals, and dead insects. 

 

Are They Dangerous?

Silverfish are not dangerous, nor can they hurt you, but they keep them away from food because they are known for contamination. These pests contaminate food with their feces, so check food that can be accessed easily throughout your home, especially if you suspect silverfish are present. As mentioned, silverfish are chewers prone to destroying homes and can chew through your belongings. Silverfish gravitate toward materials like glue, paper, and linens, which are considered to be prime food sources. If you suspect your home is facing a silverfish problem, be sure to check objects that include these materials!

 

How to Avoid and Eliminate Silverfish

Eliminating silverfish can be challenging, especially if your property is facing an infestation! Luckily, we have provided tips and techniques to help you avoid and overcome your silverfish problem moving forward! 

 

Seal Accessible Food

Silverfish are always on the hunt for food, especially food that is easily accessible to them. It’s in your best interest to seal off open food containers to avoid the damage and infestation issues these tiny pests will cause. 

 

Use a Dehumidifier

Silverfish are attracted to humidity and water, so one of the best techniques to remove and avoid them is by placing a dehumidifier in spots you suspect they may arrive within. Another tip is to keep locations with water close by clean, such as baths, showers, sinks, and laundry rooms. 

 

Use Insecticides

Using insecticides is an effective way to eliminate silverfish! Using it can protect your property for up to 45 days. Spray areas that you suspect silverfish can gain entry through and infected areas. Doing so will irritate them and force them to exit the premises. 

 

Contact Absolut Pest Control!

If you have any questions about silverfish or are facing a silverfish infestation, contact the experts at Absolut Pest Control! We have years of experience removing and exterminating bugs within Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Make the first step by calling 978-388-4589 or filling out our contact form!