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Everything You Need To Know About The Silverfish In Redding


July 15, 2022

If you've ever seen a small, silver-colored insect scurrying across your floor, you've likely seen a silverfish. Silverfish are common pests in Redding and throughout the world. They get their name from their characteristic fish-like scales, and they are often mistaken for cockroaches. Redding Spray Services will cover everything you need to know about these shiny pests: basic silverfish facts, what their purpose is, their habits, and how to remove them from your home with pest control in Redding.

a silverfish in a bathroom

Why Are Silverfish Called Silverfish?

Silverfish got their name from their distinctive fish-like scales. These pests are often mistaken for cockroaches because of their similar appearance. However, silverfish are not related to cockroaches; they are actually closer relatives of firebrats and termites.

The most common types of silverfish in Redding are the common silverfish and the Persian silverfish, which is a species that is native to Europe and Asia that has been introduced to North America. Both of these types are likely to become a problem when they enter your home in search of food and moisture.

What Is The Purpose Of Silverfish?

Silverfish help with the decomposition of leaves, paper, and other organic matter. They are scavengers that eat just about anything containing carbohydrates, including glue, book bindings, carpeting, clothing, dandruff, dead skin cells, paint, and more. You might even see a silverfish in bed if you sleep on an old mattress or in an unclean environment.

In the wild, silverfish play an important role in the breakdown of leaves and other plant matter. However, when they invade your home they can become a nuisance because they will eat just about anything.

Habits And Behavior Of Silverfish In Redding

Silverfish are nocturnal insects, so they are most active at night. During the day, they hide in dark, damp places like basements and crawl spaces. These pests are attracted to moisture, so they are often found in bathrooms and kitchens. Silverfish can also be found in laundry rooms, where they feed on starch in clothing.

Silverfish reproduce quickly; a single female can lay up to 100 silverfish eggs at a time. The eggs hatch within two weeks, and the silverfish nymphs go through several molts before reaching adulthood.

Although silverfish are not known to bite humans, they can cause skin irritation if they come into contact with bare skin. In rare cases, people may be allergic to the scales of silverfish, which can cause an itchy rash. They can cause a problem in your home by eating your food, damaging clothing and books, and spreading bacteria. If you think you have a silverfish problem, contact Redding Spray Services for professional pest control in Redding.

What Can I Do To Remove The Silverfish From My Home?

The best way to remove silverfish from your home is to practice prevention.

Here are some ways to prevent silverfish from entering your home in the first place:

  • Seal cracks and openings in your foundation and exterior walls.
  • Repair leaks in your plumbing and keep all areas of your home clean and dry.
  • Ventilate damp areas like laundry rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  • Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to reduce humidity levels in your home.
  • Remove potential food sources like paper products, cereals, sugar, flour, and pet food from silverfish-infested areas.
  • Clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner to remove dust mites, which are a favorite food source of silverfish.
  • Store clothing, linens, books, and other items in sealed plastic containers or bags.
  • Inspect boxes of new clothing and household goods for silverfish before bringing them into your home.

If you already have them in your home, the best way to get rid of silverfish is to contact a professional pest control company.

While silverfish are not dangerous, they can be a nuisance in your home. If you think you have a silverfish problem, contact Redding Spray Services. We've been providing affordable solutions for pest-free living in Redding since 1989. We will inspect your home, identify the source of the problem, and create a customized home pest control or commercial pest control treatment plan to eliminate silverfish from your property. Call us today.

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