Are Silverfish Harmful to Humans or Pets?

Are Silverfish Harmful

Silverfish are not the most delightful insects to look at. They are a strange contrast between fish and reptile, although they are actually insects.

If you have an abundance of them in your home it is worth calling the exterminators to have them removed. You canclick here and should find out more about your local experts, they’re here to help.

 What Is The Silverfish?

metallic colored insect

It is a metallic colored insect with a carrot-shaped body and long feelers extending from their head which curl down the length of their body. There are three appendages protruding from the rear of their bodies.

In short, they are strange looking and this encourages the idea that they are dangerous.

The good news is that they are not harmful to humans or pets. They will not bite you, do not carry disease, and are not poisonous if accidentally ingested.

But, silverfish feed on starchy items, and those that are high in protein. This means they will eat books, stored food, and even clothing. In short, they can be a real nuisance.

Getting Rid Of Silverfish

Surprisingly these insects can survive for extended periods of time without food. They are also capable of reproducing very quickly. One silverfish can may 100 eggs and each egg can go from egg to adult in just three months.

This makes it difficult to eradicate them from your home. However, there are steps that you can take to eliminate them. These are alongside calling the professionals out.

Seek the Moisture

moisture in your home

One of the key things to remember is that silverfish live moisture. If you have them in your home then it’s safe to say you have excessive moisture levels.

Ideally, you should use a moisture meter to check the various rooms in your home and locate the one that has the biggest issue! You’ll then need to work out where the moisture is coming from, it could be a leaking pipe in your wall.

Locating the moisture source will allow you to fix any issue and reduce the moisture in your home, effectively reducing the attractiveness of your home to silverfish.

Pesticides

You’ll need to follow the instructions to ensure your home remains a safe environment for yourself and your family. When doing so you’ll find that pesticides can be very effective at eliminating silverfish. There are also non-toxic pesticides available that use different chemicals.

Diatomaceous Earth

lady with her pet

This substance was formulated over many years from fossilized remains. It is full of tiny sharp edges that represent no issue to you or your pets. But, it will cut into the exoskeleton of any insect, dehydrating it, and then killing it.

This will work with silverfish. The issue remains knowing how big the infestation is and when to stop treating your home as you’re confident that the silverfish are gone. For this, you’re best to speak to a professional pest control expert.

They can help you to eliminate silverfish and takes steps to avoid them returning.

Article Submitted By Community Writer

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