Silverfish Pest Control
Pest Library
Silverfish Pest Control
The common silverfish, is shiny, silver or pearl gray, and about 1/2 inch long, although it can grow as long as 3/4 inch. The common firebrat, is shiny, a mottled gray or brown, and about 1/2 inch long. Adults of both species are slender, wingless, soft-bodied insects with 2 long, slender antennae. Their bodies taper gradually from front to rear to 3 long, thin, tail like appendages. Large numbers of these insects can invade new homes from surrounding wild areas, especially as these areas dry out during the summer. They also can come in on lumber, wallboard, and similar products. Freshly laid concrete and green lumber supply humidity, while wallpaper paste provides food.
Sign of a Silverfish Infestation
Keep an eye out for feeding marks, although they may be irregular whether they are holes, notches along an edge, or surface etchings. Yellow stains, scales and/or feces (tiny black pepper-like pellets) may also be seen on infested materials.
People have noticed silverfish when they come down on ceiling soffits and/or drop from skylights and canister light fixtures in the ceiling, likely entering through shake roofs.
How to Get Rid of Silverfish
To get rid of silverfish, follow these steps:
- Eliminate Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers.
- Reduce Humidity: Use a dehumidifier.
- Fix Leaks: Repair water leaks.
- Seal Gaps: Close gaps and cracks.
- Declutter: Clear spaces where silverfish hide.
- Natural Repellents: Use cedarwood, citrus peels, or cinnamon.
- Pesticides & Traps: Consider commercial products.
- Boric Acid or Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle in affected areas.
- Sticky Traps: Place near active areas.
- Professional Help: For severe infestations, consult a pest control company near you.
ABC Termite & Pest Control Omaha & Lincoln, NE
ABC Termite & Pest Control is a locally owned and operated company specializing in residential and commercial pest control in Omaha, NE, and Lincoln, NE. Spiders, ants, termites, mice, and other rodents are just a few of the many pests we professionally exterminate in the Lincoln and Omaha area.
