Monday, December 26, 2022 by Greeny’s Pest Control Inc.
If you've ever had the misfortune of encountering a silverfish in your home, you know just how creepy and unpleasant these pests can be. Native to Ontario and found throughout much of the world, silverfish are small, silver-coloured insects that are known for their quick, darting movements and love of damp, dark places. While they are not known to transmit diseases or cause significant damage to homes, they can be a nuisance and may indicate the presence of excess moisture in your home. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at silverfish in Ontario and provide some tips for dealing with these pests.
What do silverfish look like?
Silverfish are small, slender insects that are usually about half an inch to an inch long. As their name suggests, they are typically silver in colour, but can also appear brown or grey. They have a long, narrow body with three long, slender "tails" at the end and two antennae on their head. Silverfish are often confused with other pests, such as firebrats, which are similar in appearance but prefer warmer temperatures.
Where do silverfish live?
Silverfish are most commonly found in damp, dark areas of homes, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. They are also often found in attics, behind walls, and in other areas with high humidity. Silverfish are nocturnal and are most active at night, so you may not see them during the day. They are also able to go for long periods of time without food or water, which makes them well-suited to living in areas with limited resources.
What do silverfish eat?
Silverfish are omnivorous and will eat a wide variety of things, including paper, glue, and other materials that contain proteins and carbohydrates. They are particularly attracted to starchy or sugary items, such as flour, oats, and cereals. They may also feed on clothing and other fabrics, which can cause holes or damage.
How do you get rid of silverfish?
If you have a silverfish infestation in your home, there are several steps you can take to get rid of them. First, it's important to eliminate any sources of moisture that may be attracting the pests. This may include fixing leaks, using a dehumidifier, and ensuring proper ventilation in damp areas. Next, you can try using bait or traps to catch and kill the silverfish. Some common bait options include oatmeal, flour, or sugar mixed with a small amount of boric acid. You can also use sticky traps, which the silverfish will get stuck to as they try to crawl over them.
Another option is to use a chemical insecticide to kill the silverfish. There are a number of products on the market specifically designed for silverfish control. Be sure to follow the label instructions carefully and use caution when applying insecticides, as they can be toxic to humans and pets. If you're not comfortable using chemical products, you can try using natural alternatives, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils.
Preventing silverfish infestations
The best way to deal with silverfish is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of a silverfish infestation:
· Repair any leaks or sources of excess moisture in your home.
· Keep your home clean and clutter-free, as silverfish are attracted to cluttered areas.
· Store food in airtight containers and keep pantries and cupboards clean and well-organized.
· Use weatherstripping and seal any gaps or cracks in your foundation, windows, and doors to prevent silver
Alternatively, you can always contact a pest control company like Greeny’s Pest Control!