Silverfish

A silverfish insect is seen.

Slithering, scaly and silver. 

Read that description again because you might be seeing these pests around your Georgia home this winter.

They are called silverfish, but no, they aren’t actually fish.

Here’s more about the little insects, why they come inside and how to keep them out of your home.

 

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are small, wingless pests with a flat body, long antenna and tiny legs.

Silverfish get their name from the their fish-like movements, shape and metallic silver scales.

 

Why are silverfish in your home? 

Simple answer: they want food. 

If you have property full of wooden structures, piles or yard waste, silverfish are likely to breed and they may even venture inside your home to find shelter and more food.

Silverfish are also especially common in the cooler months, unlike other pests that are present in warmer climates.

“These insects proliferate in moist environments, making the fall and winter seasons their time to thrive,” experts at Active Pest Control in Locust Grove, Georgia said.

They love dark and damp areas, and feed on starch or sugar, but if they come inside your home, they are looking for more pesky snacks.

Similar to other pests, they can be found in pantries, bathrooms or kitchens.

However, silverfish can be a huge annoyance due to their diet, which consists of just about anything from books, clothing, pasta, bedding and shampoo.

 

Are silverfish harmful? 

No, they can’t bite, but they are a nuisance. According to Northwest Exterminating experts, “Their jaws aren’t strong enough to pierce human skin, but they are fast and can usually escape predators fairly quickly.”

Silverfish will, however, contaminate food, cause damage around your home and stir up allergies.

 

How can you get rid of silverfish in your home?

Here are some tips: 

  • Cleaning out closets and cabinets and dusting bookshelves
  • Storing food in airtight containers
  • Removing piles of wet leaves from your yard
  • Using a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces
  • Keeping the perimeter of your home clean and dry
  • Sealing the exterior of your home

Have you seen any silverfish in your home lately? Have tips to get rid of them? Let me know by leaving a comment below or emailing me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with The Telegraph. 

Tags: insects  Georgia  Animals