Silverfish infestation in Homes/ Moultrie termite and pest control

​​Here at Blease Exterminating, we know that any pests that homeowners encounter leave very obvious signs of their activity in the home. However, some pests are much more subtle, and can be all the more frustrating to deal with because of this. Silverfish are one such pest.

Silverfish are small, teardrop shaped pests. They are approximately 19mm in length, and can be identified by their grayish-blue coloration and three long bristles extending from the back of their body.

Silverfish typically prefer dark, damp areas such as kitchens, garages, basements, and around bathroom drains. They are nocturnal, and only leave their hiding places late at night to feed. This preference for secluded areas and nocturnal activity make silverfish very hard to detect inside of the home.

The diet of a silverfish is incredibly diverse. They feed on various types of sugars and starches, including cellulose, glue, dead insects, and linens. This diverse diet makes the typical home an ideal living space for the silverfish, and they can quickly contaminate any food source that is left unprotected.

The reproduction cycle of the silverfish is very short, and this can allow their population to rapidly increase inside of the home. Depending on the species, female silverfish can lay anywhere from a few eggs per day to many clusters of eggs. These eggs quickly hatch and the young silverfish undergo a process known as gradual metamorphosis, in which they progressively shed their exoskeletons as they grow larger.

Silverfish are an unpleasant pest to deal with. They can quickly cause significant damage to paper products, wallpaper, and linens as well as ruining any food that is left unsealed. Because of their preference to seclusion, it can be difficult for homeowners to identify silverfish as the culprit for any damage that is noticed. The best way to deal with silverfish is to remove any conditions conducive for their infestation. Silverfish prefer humid spaces, so controlling humidity in vents, crawlspaces, and basements can help to prevent any infestation.

A common myth persists that cinnamon can be used to treat for silverfish. While silverfish will avoid cinnamon, it is not toxic to them and therefore does nothing to eliminate the existing population. If a silverfish infestation is already active in your home, it is usually better to call in a professional service to eliminate the pests.

Here at Blease Exterminating, our team has years of experience treating pests of all kinds. Rather than just providing a general treatment, our technicians can inspect your home, and provide you with the most effective treatment methods to best solve your specific pest problem.

So if you are having a problem with silverfish, or simply have a question about pests, call us today at 229-891-3501!