A flash of silver across the bathroom floor, then nothing. Silverfish are quick to disappear, but their presence can reveal something worth investigating. Behind the skirting boards, your property could be offering these unwelcome guests the perfect combination of moisture, shelter and food.
These small, wingless insects are most active at night, emerging from hidden spaces to feed. They can remain active throughout the year indoors, while autumn and winter condensation can create particularly favourable conditions for common silverfish.
What makes them feel at home?
Five common attractions could be encouraging them to settle in:
- Lingering moisture. Steamy bathrooms, condensation and leaking pipes create the damp conditions common silverfish favour.
- Poor ventilation. Drying washing indoors and leaving wet towels in rooms without adequate airflow can increase humidity.
- Paper and cardboard. Undisturbed books, newspapers and packaging can provide food and shelter.
- Starchy food debris. Crumbs and other carbohydrate residues provide an accessible meal.
- Hidden spaces and wallpaper paste. Gaps behind skirting boards and loose wallpaper offer shelter, while paste and bookbinding glues can become part of the menu.
Silverfish do not bite or spread disease to people, but they can cause damage particularly to wallpaper and other materials. Repeated sightings deserve attention, particularly where damp may be involved.
Improving ventilation, repairing leaks and removing food debris are sensible first steps. However, different silverfish species have different moisture requirements, making correct identification essential to effective control.
DON’T LET A SILVER FLASH BECOME A REGULAR FIXTURE
Spotted silverfish in your home or business? Contact Concept Pest Control today to book a professional survey. Let our team investigate the activity, identify the pest and recommend targeted treatment and practical prevention measures to bring the infestation under control.
T: +44 28 9061 0999
E: pestcontrol@the-concept-group.com
W: conceptpestcontrol.co
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