Silverfish infestations on the rise across the country!

While all pests are a nuisance, silverfish are one of the most frustrating to deal with as they can be hard to spot and even harder to get rid of. According to recent studies, the number of silverfish infestations is on the rise across the country as these critters are becoming increasingly hardy and resistant to traditional extermination methods.

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are small, wingless insects that range in color from light brown to silver. They get their name from their metallic-looking scales, which shimmer and sparkle when they move. These pests measure about 1/2 an inch long and typically live in warm, moist environments like bathrooms and kitchens. While they prefer dark, humid areas, they can also survive in dry environments if they have access to enough food and water. Silverfish eat a wide variety of materials including:

-Carpet fibers

-Paper

-Fabrics

-Book bindings

-Glue

-Cigarette butts 15 common signs you have a silverfish infestation: 1. You find small, shiny bugs around your home. 2. You find bug droppings or feces on walls, ceilings, or floors. 3. You find bug eggs or webs in hidden places such as under furniture or in closets. 4. You see the bugs themselves scurrying around your home. 5. Your house smells musty or earthy, possibly indicating that the bugs are breeding somewhere hidden 6. There's evidence that the bugs have been eating clothing or fabric - tiny holes in clothes, for example 7. The paper in your books has started to turn yellow or brown - this is because silverfish eat the starch in paper 8. There's evidence that the bugs have been eating wallpaper - shreds of wallpaper lying around, for example 9. The edges of your carpets are starting to fray or curl - carpets are a favorite food of silverfish 10 The metal hinges on doors or cabinets are starting to rust - silverfish like to eat metal too 11 You've found dried pellets of bug poop (these look similar to mouse droppings) 12 Oddly enough, you've found dead ones - usually indicates an infestation 13 They're coming out during the daytime - usually means there's a large infestation 14 Your pets seem agitated around a certain area of your home 15 You start seeing them less often after you start treatment Silverfish extermination tips: If you suspect you have a silverfish infestation, it's best to call a professional exterminator rather than trying to take care of it yourself. However, if you must treat an infestation yourself here are some tips: 1 Use bait: Place bait such as rolled oats or flour near suspected insect hideouts e.g., inside bookcases or along the edge of walls. 2 Vacuum regularly: This will help remove both live and dead insects as well as eggs 3 Fix any water leaks: Silverfish thrive in moist environments so fixing any leaks will help reduce their numbers 4 Use pesticide: Sprays or dusts containing permethrin or pyrethrin can be effective against silverfish 5 Remove clutter: Silverfish like to hide in clutter so removing excess belongings will make it easier for you to find and treat them 6 Get a dehumidifier: Dehumidifiers help reduce moisture levels which will make it harder for silverfish to thrive

Scientists baffled by sudden increase in silverfish populations.3. Silverfish plague among the top exterminator concerns this year.4. These little pests can cause big problems: Tips to getting rid of silverfish.5. How to prevent a silverfish infestation in your home

Silverfish have been causing some concern among scientists and pest control experts lately, with their populations seemingly on the rise for no apparent reason. These little pests can cause big problems, so it's important to be aware of how to get rid of them and prevent them from taking over your home.

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are a type of primitive, wingless insect that is closely related to cockroaches. They are typically about one inch long and are a dull silver or light brown in color. They get their name from their distinctive scales, which give them a fish-like appearance. Silverfish are nocturnal creatures and prefer dark, moist environments. They can be found in nearly any environment, but they are especially common in homes where there is a lot of moisture or humidity.

Why are they a problem?

While they may not seem like much of a threat, silverfish can actually cause a lot of damage to your home. Their main food sources are starch and sugar, so they can do significant damage to books, paper products, wallpaper, and other items made from these materials. They can also contaminate food products with their excrement, leading to potential health risks. And if you have allergies, silverfish can aggravate these conditions significantly.

How do I get rid of them?

If you have a silverfish infestation, there are several things you can do to get rid of them. One easy way is to sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the edges of your rooms where they tend to congregate. This will kill them when they walk over it. You can also use baits such as sweetened cereal or flour mixed with boric acid powder as traps. Finally, you can vacuum them up or smash them with a rolled-up newspaper. Just be sure to dispose of the corpses properly so they don't become another breeding ground for more silverfish!

The best way to prevent a silverfish infestation is by keeping your home clean and dry. Make sure all your food is properly sealed and stored away, and repair any leaks or moisture problems that you may have. If you do find yourself dealing with a silverfish infestation, take action immediately before they become an even bigger problem!