Tips And Tricks For Preventing Silverfish In Sarasota County

3/10/2023

Silverfish may sound like something you would find in the ocean, but these invasive creatures are actually a type of insect commonly found in Sarasota County homes. Silverfish are not only unhygienic, but they are also extremely destructive. If you think you may have silverfish hanging around your house, Keller's Pest Control can help. We have been providing comprehensive pest control in Sarasota County for years and know how to tackle the many challenges that come with achieving total silverfish control. 

a silverfish crawling in a home

What Is This Little Silver Bug?

Silverfish are odd-looking insects that get their name from the way they walk. They have six short legs and flexible bodies that mimic a fish-like movement when walking or running. They also have silvery metallic scales covering their bodies, adding even more to their fish-like appearance. 

On average, a silverfish can grow slightly less than an inch long; however, they have three tail-like appendages sprouting out from their rear, making them seem bigger than they actually are. Its tear-shaped body gives it an even more unique appearance, and its two long antennae extending from the top of its head can make this bug look a little intimidating. 

The Problem With Silverfish In The House

Silverfish have an odd appetite. They love to consume starchy foods that have protein and carbohydrates. Most of the things in a silverfish's diet are not what a human would consider edible. What do silverfish eat? We're glad you asked.

Some of the things that a silverfish will eat around your home may include:

  • Clothing

  • Wallpaper

  • Grains

  • Cereals

  • Book bindings

  • Paper

  • Glue

  • Cardboard

These tiny bugs are not too picky when it comes to finding a meal. And although they are not aggressive and are considered harmless to humans, they are capable of causing severe allergic reactions in some people, which could be life-threatening. 

Four No-Sweat Prevention Tips To Keep Silverfish Out Of Your Home

Like all animals, silverfish need food, shelter, and water to survive. They are also especially drawn to moist and humid areas. If you want to keep silverfish out of your Sarasota County home, you can try these easy and helpful tips:

  1. Use a dehumidifier around your home to remove the moisture.
  2. Make sure humid areas, such as basements and laundry rooms, have adequate ventilation.
  3. Use caulking or some other durable materials to seal up any gaps or cracks that you may have around your house.
  4. Remove any cardboard boxes from your home.

Placing all dry food, including pet food, in sealable or glass containers is also a good idea. Silverfish are not able to climb up non-porous surfaces like glass. If they are unable to access a reliable food source, they will be less likely to invade your home.

The Trick To Getting Rid Of Silverfish In Your Home

Silverfish are difficult to get rid of on your own. If you want to eliminate silverfish from your Sarasota County home completely, you will need the help of a professional. At Keller's Pest Control, we have years of experience dealing with these bothersome pests. We understand their habits and behaviors, which allows us to predict their next move. We will not only get these insects out of your house, but we will also take comprehensive steps to ensure they cannot return in the future. Give us a call today for a free estimate and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Sarasota County.

Tags: sarasota county pest control | silverfish prevention | silverfish problems |

 

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