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Silverfish in Irvine, California

silverfish in home

When one thinks of pests, a silverfish is not often what comes to mind. They are, however, one of the more persistent household invaders. How to identify these unwanted guests, how to get rid of silverfish, and so much more will be explained below in our comprehensive introduction to this common pest intruding our California homes. 

What Are Silverfish? 

Silverfish are small, silver bugs that wiggle around. Though they can be quite an eyesore, they are not dangerous. They do not spread diseases and the damage they cause is minimal. However, they are well known for causing personal property damage, including contaminating food and eating holes in clothing and curtains. 

What Do Silverfish Look Like?

Silverfish are best identified visually. They generally have the following characteristics:

  • Silver to black bodies about ¾ of an inch in length.
  • Three tail appendages and two head antennas. 
  • Long, flat, carrot-shaped bodies.

Where do Silverfish Come From?

Silverfish are from all over the world— the Americas, Africa, Eurasia, and Australia. As they naturally are found all over the world, they can find themselves in any home in any of the mentioned places. They prefer moist areas, with a humidity requirement of between 75% and 95%. Irvine’s relative humidity averages at about 80%, making it a prime target for silverfish. Silverfish in bathrooms are especially common. 

Silverfish Activity

Silverfish are very shy and will often obscure themselves from humans. If they are exposed, they will quickly wiggle to another hidden place. They will often congregate around areas in homes with high humidity, including basements, attics, and bathrooms. Silverfish do not have wings so they cannot fly, but they quickly wiggle around like a fish. They do not have strong jaws, forcing them to scrape off particles of food.

Firebrat vs Silverfish

While similar in nature, there are a few key differences between firebrats and silverfish. They include:

  • Silverfish are normally one color on their backs, whereas firebrats have speckled backs.
  • Silverfish antennae can outgrow their bodies, but this is not common in firebrats.
  • Silverfish can live for up to 3 years, whereas firebrats hardly last past 2 years.

Do Silverfish Bite?

Silverfish can bite, but they have very weak jaws, so they are not harmful. They are also incredibly shy creatures and will always choose to run and hide from any larger predator. A silverfish bite is nothing to worry about.

How to Get Rid of Silverfish

Silverfish are difficult to get rid of since they are a persistent pest. As a homeowner, there are a few things you can do to prevent them from infesting your home, including keeping dry food sealed and locked away and sealing cracks in walls. However, the best way to get rid of them is to call a professional pest control service.

Call the Best Silverfish Control in Irvine, California

If you are looking for professional pest control services in Irvine, look no further than WedoCreepy.com! As a local pest control company, we understand how important instant relief is, which is why we will have a licensed exterminator at your home within 24 hours of your call.