Silverfish are one of the more distinctive nuisance pests found in Southern California homes, easily identified by their silvery-blue, teardrop-shaped bodies that taper from head to tail, typically measuring about 1/2 to 3/4 inch long. They have a fish-like, wriggling motion when they move, no wings, and three long, bristle-like tails at the rear along with two long antennae up front. Their flattened bodies allow them to squeeze into extremely tight spaces, and they’re most active at night, quickly darting for cover when disturbed.
Silverfish thrive in humid, dark environments, which makes bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, attics, and garages common hiding spots in LA and Orange County homes. They’re also frequently found in closets, storage boxes, bookshelves, and areas with paper, cardboard, or fabric, since these materials contain starches and cellulose that silverfish feed on. Older homes and buildings with plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, or high indoor humidity tend to see silverfish activity more often, and they can enter through plumbing gaps, vents, or items brought in from storage units or secondhand furniture.
While silverfish don’t bite people or spread disease, they can cause real property damage over time. Their diet includes book bindings, wallpaper, wallpaper paste, photographs, clothing, and stored documents, meaning a persistent infestation can quietly damage keepsakes, important papers, and fabrics stored in closets or attics. Their presence is also a useful signal of excess moisture somewhere in the home that may need attention beyond pest control alone.
Guarantee Pest Control has helped Los Angeles and Orange County homeowners protect their belongings from silverfish since 1958. As a family-owned company, we know the humidity-prone areas common in homes throughout Downtown LA, Carson, Norwalk, and beyond, and our technicians will inspect your property and recommend an effective treatment plan, including our eco-friendly Guarantee Green options. Every service comes with a free estimate, no-penalty cancellation, and a 3-month guarantee on most services. Call 1-800-507-3787 or request a free estimate today.