Silverfish occasionally enter homes looking for food, moisture, and shelter. Once inside, these pests can be very difficult to control, and they can cause damage to household items, which is why it’s important to identify an infestation. Catching a pest problem early will make it easier to eliminate an infestation. We’ve made a list of five signs that warn of a silverfish infestation.
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1. Silverfish Sightings
This may seem obvious, but spotting a silverfish can be a warning of an infestation. While seeing one silverfish doesn’t mean your house is infested, it’s important to be alert and look for other signs. These pests are silvery-blue and metallic. They range in size from ½ʺ-¾ʺ in length. They have three tail-like appendages. These pests are extremely fast, making them difficult to catch. Their flat bodies allow them to hide in tight spaces, and they are nocturnal, so it can be tricky to spot them.
2. Silverfish Damage
Silverfish love to eat carbohydrates including starches and sugary substances. Unfortunately, many of your household items fit this description. If you notice holes in food packages, paper, books, wallpaper, and even linens, silverfish could be the problem. One silverfish may not cause major problems, but a large infestation can result in significant damage.
3. Yellow Stains
Silverfish don’t just eat their way through your home. They can also leave yellow stains on household items. These are commonly found on books, paper, cardboard boxes, and fabric including clothes. This secretion can also leave stains on walls and floors. Storing your items in plastic bins with lids or in dry areas where silverfish are less likely to visit can help prevent damage.
4. Silverfish Skin
Another clue silverfish leave behind is their shed skin and scales. Silverfish molt throughout their life. This is most common during the nymph stage. It’s possible they’ll leave behind this shed skin in your home. It can go unnoticed because it’s small and can be mixed in with dust. You’re likely to find shed skin in areas where silverfish frequent including bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
5. Silverfish Droppings
Though it’s unpleasant to think about, silverfish droppings can alert you to an infestation. These are small, round, and black. They resemble tiny peppercorns. They are likely to be found in the damp and dark locations silverfish hide including kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and basements. You may also find droppings on books, magazines, and wallpaper.
Pests are great at sneaking into your home and staying hidden. Thankfully, silverfish leave behind a few clues to alert you to their presence. If you notice these signs, it’s important to find an effective solution. When pests, like silverfish, give you a fit, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.