Silverfish are confusing insects. Not only does their name cast a bit of mystery on them, but their existence as an enemy in the popular video game Minecraft and their similarity to other pests make some believe they don’t exist. Unfortunately for everyone who has to lay eyes on a silverfish, they are very real. Keep reading to learn more about silverfish and their lookalikes, the potential threats they pose to your household, and the best way to get rid of them.
What Do Silverfish In Mooresville Look Like?
Silverfish get their name from the metallic scale-like appearance of their exoskeletons. They also move in a fish-like motion. Shaped sort of like an apostrophe, they are long and semi-oval shaped. With six legs and two long antennae on the front, they also have three bristles on their rear end that look like extra antennae.
Silverfish identification can be difficult because several bugs look like silverfish. One of the most commonly confused bugs that look like silverfish is the firebrat, which also has terrible bristles on its back end and a similar body shape. Some other commonly confused insects are centipedes, earwigs, and bristletails. Getting proper identification of silverfish can help you make the right choice for effectively treating the problem.
How Dangerous Are Silverfish in Mooresville?
Thankfully, these gross little guys cannot harm us. They do not carry disease, and there is no such thing as a silverfish bug bite. The greatest threat a silverfish can pose is its destructive tendency towards personal belongings.
While a silverfish bug bite is unlikely, holes in clothing, books, and wallpaper are a distinct possibility. The silverfish diet consists mostly of proteins, including their own kind. They also like dried beef. However, in the absence of protein, they can easily subsist on carbohydrates. Flour, rolled oats, clothing, books, wallpaper, and envelopes are all part of a silverfish diet when protein isn’t available.
Silverfish Prevention Tips for Your Mooresville Home
The best method for silverfish pest control is to maintain your home and control the conditions inside of it that may attract them. Some prevention methods include:
- Move or remove anything stored or leaning against the home’s exterior.
- Seal cracks and holes around the home’s foundation with silicone-based caulk.
- Run a dehumidifier in poorly ventilated areas.
- Repair leaking pipes and drains, especially near your home and inside.
- Seal and clean shake roofs every other year.
- Repair or get rid of moldy wood in and around the home.
- Store flour and sugar in air-tight containers, preferably glass or metal.
For a pest that prefers to remain outdoors, it can be difficult to determine how and why silverfish are coming inside. If you’re having difficulty determining the source and getting rid of the infestation, that’s when you want to look into professional silverfish pest control at Lake Norman Home Services.
The Best Way to Get Rid of Silverfish in Your Mooresville Home
While silverfish aren’t a health threat, the anxiety you may feel when a silverfish falls from a ceiling light onto your head is definitely a concern. To get rid of a silverfish infestation in Mooresville, call on the professionals at Lake Norman Home Services. Not only can we identify how silverfish are getting into your home, but we can also get rid of your infestation and protect your home against future pest problems. For your first inspection and treatment, call Lake Norman Home Services today.