Learning About Natural Pest Control

What Are Those Bugs With Big, Spiky Tails?

18 November 2017 by Norah Slieker

Are you finding insects with big, spiky, tail-like projections in your home? If these bugs also have long antennae and two smaller spikes coming from their back ends, they are probably silverfish. Here's a closer look at these insects, what attracts them, and how to get rid of them:

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are insects named for their silvery-gray color. They are nocturnal by nature, meaning that they are more active at night than during the day. Their scientific name is Lepisma saccharina. These bugs live all over Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, and they are widely climate-tolerant, so you will see them occasionally whether you live in warm Hawaii or chilly Montana.

What attracts silverfish to your home?

Silverfish love to feed on sugars and carbohydrates. So, if they're able to easily access a sugar bowl, crackers in a box, cereal, or crumbs of bread, these bugs are more likely to move into your home. They also need a source of moisture, meaning they tend to congregate in bathrooms and basements. If you have a plumbing leak, an overly humid home, or a leak in your foundation, you are more likely to see silverfish around.

How can you get rid of them?

If you only see one silverfish now and then, just kill it and flush it down the toilet. These are probably just scouts looking for food and moisture. If they don't return to their outdoor nest and alert their colonies that there's food indoors, you'll reduce your chances of an infestation.

If you see more than the occasional silverfish, then they might actually be living and nesting in your home. You can hire a pest control company to spray insecticides. However, you'll also need to take steps to reduce their access to food and water. Here are a few steps to get you started:

• Install a dehumidifier to remove moisture from your basement
• Always run your bathroom exhaust fan after you shower
• Dry out the sink and tub after each use
• Keep food in sealed containers
• Vacuum and sweep your floors every day
• Wipe down your counters more often
• Do dishes immediately rather than letting them sit in your sink

Silverfish are not dangerous, and they don't typically bite unless provoked. If you see these creatures in your home, remember that they look scarier than they are. Follow the steps above, and you should be rid of them soon. 

Contact a company like JD Termite & Pest Control Company for more information and assistance. 

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