If you’ve ever seen a silverfish, you know that these small insects are strange-looking and that they look like prehistoric insects. They are usually silver in color and have long bodies that get thinner towards the bottom. They have three string-like appendages that come out of the end of their bodies as well as long antennae. Silverfish are only about an inch long with a shell-like body that almost looks like armor. Because of their off-putting appearance, it’s easy to assume that silverfish are dangerous, but overall, they are just nuisance pests.

It’s important to know a few things about their behavior in order to prevent and control them. First, silverfish are nocturnal pests that are attracted to light. Second, they are known for their wriggling movements that are rather fish-like. Third, they prefer to live in dark, damp areas.

Do Silverfish Cause Problems For Homeowners?

Silverfish don’t pose any health risks for you, your family, or your pets. There is no evidence that silverfish spread diseases or cause allergic reactions, and they don’t bite or sting. So, while they might look kind of creepy with their strange bodies and appendages, they aren’t going to hurt you.

However, silverfish can damage your belongings. While they aren’t as destructive as pests like termites and rodents, they can destroy certain items over time. This is because they like to chew on things like books, wallpaper, old papers, and cereals since they are attracted to anything that has sugars or carbohydrates.

Easy Tips For Preventing Silverfish

Since silverfish can damage things around your home, including certain valuables, it’s a smart idea to take steps to prevent them. These preventive measures aren’t a complete guarantee, but they do reduce the risk of infestation by making your property less appealing to silverfish.

  • As silverfish need humid environments, make sure that basements and crawl spaces are well-ventilated.
  • Address other moisture issues by fixing leaky plumbing.
  • Always check secondhand books and boxes for silverfish.
  • Store books, papers, and boxes in dry areas.
  • Throw out any cardboard or papers with water damage.
  • Use dehumidifiers if you have humidity issues in your home.

What Is The Best Way To Handle Silverfish Infestations?

While silverfish might not actually be dangerous, they are not welcome houseguests. Their strange appearance can make them unsettling, and even nuisance pests can make you feel unsafe and stressed out in your home. The best way to get advice and assistance with the prevention and removal of silverfish is to get help from Ray’s Pest Control & Wildlife Removal.

We have been protecting homes in the Winston-Salem area for over 45 years, and our experienced technicians can handle all kinds of pest problems no matter how severe. Learn more about our services, or request an inspection, by contacting us today.