Silverfish (Lespisma saccharina)
Appearance:
Silverfish are small, wingless insects usually measuring 20mm or less in length. They have three tails (or cerci) and their body is covered in tiny silver scales.
Habits:
Silverfish do not have wings, but are able to run very fast. They are usually seen in moist, humid areas in the home, such as bathrooms, basements, and attics.
They feed off moulds and starchy materials like cereals, flour, sweet foods, paper, curtains and wallpaper items. Silverfish can live up to a year without food, but require an environment of high humidity. They move fast and are by nature nocturnal.
Threats:
While silverfish are mainly a nuisance pest, because they can contaminate food and damage paper goods such as wall paper and books.
Prevention:
One option is to install a dehumidifier in your home. Other options are to identify and repair leaky pipes and drains and also eliminate or repair any mouldy/wet wood. Refrain from keeping old books and magazines in areas where silverfish are usually found like basements, attics and garages. Food items such as flour and sugar should be kept in tight containers.
Contact Owl Pest Control or Call 01 452 3680 for more advice and Silverfish Control Services.
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