Silverfish

What are silverfish?

The best word to describe the silverfish is "interesting." These unique-looking insects have an almost alien-like quality to them.

Physical features of a silverfish include:

• A teardrop or carrot-shaped body
• Antennae that are almost as long as the body
• Three bristle-like appendages extending from the hind end

Silverfish are born white but turn a dark gray color as they age. Adults grow between 1/2 an inch and one inch long, and silver scales cover the body. Silverfish are not aquatic but move across the ground using their legs in a wriggling fish-like manner. An interesting silverfish fact is that some can live for three years or longer, meaning if they get into your home, they have the potential to be around for a long time.

Silverfish don’t enter our Cedar Park houses as frequently as other common household pests like ants and spiders but won't hesitate to move into our homes when their outdoor environment no longer meets their needs. Read here to learn more about silverfish in Cedar Park and how best to guard your home against them.

Are silverfish dangerous?

Silverfish are not directly dangerous to people, but having them in our homes is a cause for concern. These insects are destructive, and when in our houses, silverfish will cause damage to personal items and contaminate stored foods.

Silverfish prefer to feed on starchy foods, which can wreak havoc in our home’s pantries. As silverfish feed, they contaminate cereals, sugars, and grains with excrement and saliva. Interestingly, silverfish also like to feed on glue and other adhesive materials. A silverfish infestation can cause damage to wallpaper, flooring, books, and stickers.

Why do I have a silverfish problem?

Silverfish have high moisture needs and, to survive, live in damp, dark habitats. Common sources of moisture that draw silverfish and other moisture-loving pests to your yard and home include:

• Leaky pipes
• Dripping faucets and fixtures
• Damaged weatherstripping
• Missing roof shingles
• Poor ventilation
• Overgrown vegetation

If silverfish have become a problem in your home, it can indicate a moisture issue that you should immediately address. A silverfish can also hitchhike its way into homes on things like pieces of firewood, potted plants, and other items that have been outside that you bring inside.

Where will I find silverfish?

Silverfish are most successful in indoor and outdoor spaces with high humidity levels. In our yards, silverfish like to gather in the damp soil under leaves, mulch, landscaping ties, trashcans, and woodpiles. When the Texas heat makes it so their outdoor environment is too dry, they migrate towards areas of moisture. Silverfish living in gardens, flowerbeds, or under trash cans near our houses often use our houses as a place of respite. Once inside, they will take cover in damp, dark places like basements, crawl spaces, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

Silverfish, while not the most problematic pest to find their way into your Cedar Park home, are definitely not wanted roommates. If silverfish have decided to move into your home, partner with us at Lakeline Pest Control. Our professionals will locate, treat, and remove all the silverfish from your home. Through our home pest control services, we will ensure that your home becomes free of silverfish and our area's other common household pests. Call today to speak to one of our helpful experts and to request a free quote.

How can I prevent silverfish in the future?

Working with a professional who can offer effective silverfish control in Cedar Park is the best way to prevent issues with silverfish. Here are some other helpful, easy-to-execute prevention tips:

• Quickly repair leaky pipes, faucets, and other sources of excess moisture.
• Reduce humidity levels in basements, bathrooms, and utility rooms with the help of a dehumidifier. 
• Place clothing, blankets, and other fabric items you store in plastic containers with locking lids. Avoid using cardboard boxes. 
• Store dry goods like cereals, dry pasta, and pet food in airtight containers.
• Regularly vacuum your home to remove dust and other debris.

Another essential step to avoid issues with these household intruders is eliminating common entry points. Seal cracks in your home's foundation and install door sweeps on exterior doors.