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Silverfish Control

Silverfish eating your clothes?

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Guide to Silverfish

Did you know? Silverfish are actually believed to be one of the oldest insect species alive on earth.

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What do Silverfish Look Like?

Information about Silverfish Control

Silverfish, also known as fish moths, are a species of small, primitive, wingless insects that are typically found in Africa, the Americas, Australia, Eurasia, and other Pacific locations. These pests thrive in humid environments that are dark and damp, such as attics, bathtubs, sinks, kitchens, old books, classrooms, and showers in some urban areas. While they are not harmful or detrimental to your health in terms of bites or disease, they are still considered pests due to their destructive feeding habits.

Silverfish consume matter that contains polysaccharides, such as starch and cellulose, as well as sugar. What this means is that if you have any carpeting, books, clothing, coffee, glue, papers, paints, photos, etc., these Silverfish will either destroy the actual item by feeding on it or destroy it to feed on it. For example, a Silverfish will damage your wallpaper to feast on the paste.

As you can see, Silverfish can become highly destructive household pests if left for too long. Ironically, other pests like earwigs, house centipedes, and spiders are predators of Silverfish. For Professional Silverfish Control contact us today!

Silverfish: What Are They?

Silverfish, also known as fish moths, are nocturnal insects that inhabit damp areas. Their bodies are up to one inch long and have long antennae on one end. At the end of their bodies, they have three long appendages called cerci. Its silvery shine and wriggling motion resemble those of fish, which gives it its name. Even though silverfish can live in a variety of environments, they prefer moist, warm environments.

Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens are the most familiar places to find them. Boxes, shelves, behind walls or wallpaper, under sinks, in closets, in bathtubs, and even in window or door frames are the most likely places to find them. Silverfish can lay up to fifty eggs at a time and have an exceedingly long lifespan – although there is some disagreement about how long; different sources say silverfish live between two and seven years.

The Most Effective Way to Deal with a Silverfish Infestation

Due to their small size, fast speed, and nocturnal habits, silverfish are often overlooked until they have already infested an area. If you prefer to deal with a silverfish infestation yourself, boric acid can be highly effective. Ingestion or external contact with the powder is harmful. It is also possible to kill these pests with basic roach traps and insecticides. Professional assistance is recommended since do-it-yourself tactics are rarely effective at eliminating all silverfish, and many of these methods do not destroy the countless eggs that silverfish lay.

It is still possible for silverfish to damage precious books, priceless photographs, and other valuable items, even though they are a minor nuisance rather than a major pest. Get your home silverfish proof or contact a professional to deal with a silverfish infestation.

Silverfish Infestation Prevention

Removing the factors that encourage silverfish to move in and breed is one way to prevent them. Silverfish are less likely to establish themselves in your home if you eliminate some of their food sources, such as cardboard, old books, and rotting shelves. Silverfish infestations is also significantly reduced by removing moisture from surfaces or even dehumidifying your home because silverfish like humid places.

To keep silverfish and other pests out, leaks in pipes should be repaired, and cracks and drains should be sealed. Infected areas can also benefit from wallpaper removal. Silverfish can be prevented through home maintenance and other measures. There are some herbs that are known to deter silverfish, such as rosemary or costmary sprigs, which can be laid around areas where silverfish may be present. Silverfish are also deterred by cucumber peels and camphor.

What Makes Silverfish Pests?

Silverfish can pose a serious nuisance at times, even though they are not particularly harmful to humans or buildings. Silverfish prefer vegetable matter with a high carbohydrate and protein content, such as starches and adhesives. Consequently, they cause damage to book bindings, paper, photos, carpets, wallpaper, and even some synthetic fabrics. Sugar and coffee are also consumed, contaminating household foods.

Our Reviews

Kathy Calder
Kathy Calder
2023-01-17
I was very happy with the service from Pest Managers. I had an infestation of wasps and had a holiday rental in my house. The receptionist call me back as she had a cancellation. They arrived on time and sorted the problem.
Sharron McPherson
Sharron McPherson
2023-01-03
Prompt, friendly, professional and honest brokers. Couldn't ask for better customer service. Highly recommend this company.
dolly september
dolly september
2022-12-02
So I had rats infestation in my house. When the team came on-site they also noticed birds nesting in my ceiling also, causing birds mites. I was soo impressed with their professionalism and how thorough they were in explaining the whole process and efficient job well done. From when I requested the quote until the job was completed. The communication was clear and very friendly yazi. 10 stars to you guys
Alison Bourne
Alison Bourne
2022-11-28
We found Pest Managers such a pleasure to deal with - their efficient office staff and their excellent field staff who were thorough, knowledgeable and so pleasant and helpful. Dealing with a wandering rat who was making life very difficult for one of our flat residents, their staff were kind, helpful and offered an ingenious solution, going beyond what was expected of them! Thank you so much - we can recommend them most heartily!~ Alison, Kenilworth
simon catchpole
simon catchpole
2022-11-22
Unfortunately, when our new house in Riebeek Kasteel was completed three years ago the contractor failed to completely close the roof edges. In the interim period, starlings have seized the opportunity to nest to the point that it was no longer acceptable. I contacted Pest Managers who spent time understanding our problem and how best to deal with it. Adriaan, Albert, and Trevor turned up yesterday to undertake their recommended action and I can honestly say what they installed has been an enormous success to the frustration of the starlings! What I loved about Adriaan and his team is that they clearly explained what they were going to install and how it would last over time (UV coated mesh etc). They were extremely professional and terribly helpful when we had questions during the course of the installation. As a family business, I definitely would recommend Adriaan and his team over bigger "brands" as the fact is each of them knew exactly what needed to be done and did it professionally - you can't say that about the big boys who employ everyone and anyone just to make some money and don't care about the solution they implement. I've already recommended Pest Managers and will continue to do so as they really are the best when it comes to resolving pest issues we all face. So thank you Adriaan, Albert, and Trevor and everyone else at Pest Managers as you really are the best....and of course good riddance to the starlings! Simon and Cherie
Rico Hattingh
Rico Hattingh
2022-09-20
We had endless problems of Ants for years and have tried every single product and service possible, but to no avail, until we were referred to Phillip from Pest Managers who only did one treatment. They spent a few hours around the house and literally now a year later, I have not seen 1 ant. This is really the Best choice that I've made ever.
Ryan Dunne
Ryan Dunne
2022-09-14
I contacted Pest Managers to get rid of a Yellow Jacket Wasp infestation. The team was very professional, as well as knowledgeable. I would certainly make use of their services again, and can highly recommend them.
Kelly Laubscher
Kelly Laubscher
2022-09-13
Pest Managers did an excellent job taking care of our Ant pest control problem. Their efficiency, effectiveness, and timeliness were top notch. The granule bait they used was taken immediately by the ants and three months later, they haven't returned! They were friendly, knowledgeable, and I felt like I got professional pest control service. Clicked on Pest Managers when searching for Pest Control Cape Town, contacted them and received the friendliest service agent. Within 24 hours of making the booking, the guys were at our site for an inspection and treatment! It was a pleasure to work with such a well-organized company. Excellent service at an affordable price! I would like to thank you for the excellent service you provided.
Mark Cohen
Mark Cohen
2022-08-24
Bird-proofing - wires and spikes. Very professional and friendly service from start to finish - recommend them highly!!