Silverfish
What are silverfish?
You can't help but notice silverfish because of their striking physical appearance! Some of this insect's most notable physical features include:
- A teardrop-shaped body
- Grey or silvery scales covering the body
- A pair of long antennae
- A three-pronged bristle-like appendage extending from the hind end
Despite the name, silverfish are not aquatic, but they do have high moisture needs and move quickly from place to place using fish-like wriggling movements.
Are silverfish dangerous?
The silverfish feeding habits allow them to damage a variety of things inside homes, including wallpaper, books, photos, and fabrics. While silverfish in Costa Mesa may damage personal property, they don't bite, sting, or spread diseases, nor do they damage the structure of a building. However, silverfish can move inside in large numbers and quickly make themselves a nuisance.
Why do I have a silverfish problem?
When it comes to silverfish, the unfortunate truth is that their presence in or around your home is an indicator of an underlying moisture problem that you need to address. Foundation problems, leaking pipes, and overflowing gutters can all cause moisture issues and attract silverfish and other moisture-seeking pests. Also, if the weather outside becomes too hot and dry, silverfish move inside, seeking damp, dark areas to live that meet their high moisture needs.
Where will I find silverfish?
Whether living inside or outside, silverfish prefer to live in damp, dark areas. Moist soil and mulch located around our homes' perimeter provide silverfish with damp living conditions and provide them with easy access into our homes. Silverfish also like to hide under rocks, leaf piles, woodpiles, trash cans, and rock walls. Silverfish make a bee-line for humid areas like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces after moving into a home.
How do I get rid of silverfish?
The smartest way to eliminate silverfish and other pests from your property is to partner with the professionals at Smart Pest Control. We deliver home pest control services that are comprehensive and detailed, making sure we get to the root of your pest problem and completely solve it.
To learn more about how our locally owned company will protect your property from pests, reach out to Smart Pest Control today. We can work together to ensure your Costa Mesa home or business becomes and stays free of pests; we guarantee it! Call today to learn more about our silverfish control solutions in Costa Mesa!
How can I prevent silverfish in the future?
The professionals at Smart Pest Control can help you prevent problems with silverfish and other pests. In addition, use the following tips to help prevent future issues with silverfish.
- Store clothing, blankets, and other fabric items in plastic containers with locking lids instead of cardboard boxes.
- If possible, do not store piles of paper, cardboard boxes, books, and similar items in damp areas such as basements or crawlspaces.
- Repair leaky pipes, faucets, and other fixtures.
- Do not over-plant in garden areas near your home. Leave a space between plants, so the sun can hit the soil and dry it out.
- Limit entry points by repairing gaps in the foundation, damaged wood trim, and older or cracked weatherstripping.
- Use dehumidifiers to reduce the overall humidity levels in your home.