Silverfish
Silverfish are a small, silvery insect found across Australia. They are fish-like in appearance, with a flattened, scaly and slender body that tapers towards the rear. They have long antennae and six legs that allow them to scurry off quickly. They are famous for their destructive feeding habits. They munch on valuable items containing starch or cellulose, such as books, photographs, paintings, stored food products and carpet. Often found in dark, damp areas, silverfish are a difficult pest to control in large numbers and need professional treatment.
Flick Home Protection makes protecting your family and home from pests easier than ever. Our effective and affordable pest control plans include exclusive 12 month warranty. Silverfish are included in our Gold, Silver and Bronze Home Protection Plans. Find out more here.
Shield Your Family & Home Year Round from Silverfish
Flick's Home Protection Plans
Flick's Home Protection Plans provide effective and affordable protection for your home and family from a wide range of pests. Our Gold, Silver and Bronze plans include preventive measures to stop silverfish from entering your home in the first place, as well as reactive and emergency silverfish pest control services if needed. All plans come with a 12-month warranty* and easy monthly payments. With a variety of plans to choose from, you can find a plan that meets your specific needs and budget. Contact your local Flick branch to see if Home Protection is available in your area and begin shielding your family from silverfish today!
Commercial Pest Solutions
Integrated Silverfish Solutions
It is essential for businesses to prioritise the health and safety of their employees and customers. Silverfish not only pose a health risk but also damage property and reputation. Flick’s professional commercial pest control services provide tailored solutions to prevent and eliminate any pest infestations, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for everyone. Our regular inspections and treatments help to maintain a pest-free workplace and protect your business from potential pest related damage. Trusting in Flick’s commercial pest control solutions is a smart investment in the long-term success and reputation of any business.
Learn more here or call 1300 270 019.
Common Silverfish Questions
Where do silverfish hide?
In their natural habitat, silverfish live under bark, inside logs and under dead leaves. When they move indoors, they may hide in books, carpet and stored goods. They also like to hide in roof voids and dark, undisturbed spaces. As adults, silverfish generally measure up to 15mm. They easily hide in cracks and crevices during daylight hours.
When are silverfish active?
Silverfish are primarily nocturnal. They go on a hunt during the night – for natural and synthetic fibres, books and other paper products. Silverfish enjoy warm and humid temperatures between 13 – 40 degrees celsius, and air conditioning has created the ideal temperate environment for them to breed. They are less likely to survive extreme temperatures.
Why are silverfish a pest?
Silverfish don’t spread disease, but they destroy property and can cause a great deal of damage. They prefer to live in dark areas where they won’t be disturbed. You may find them lurking in roof and wall cavities, behind skirting boards, under carpet edges, in books and in stored goods. Key indicators are books coming off their spines (as silverfish have eaten the glue that binds the paper to the cover), stained fabrics and holes in packaging.
Do I need professional silverfish control?
Silverfish are common pests across Australia and are difficult to get rid of without professional help. As they’re nocturnal, it can be hard to catch them! The Flick Pest Control team will identify their hiding spots and treat the area chemically.
How do I prevent silverfish coming back?
Check dark, hidden areas of your homes regularly for silverfish – for example bookcases and cupboards. Also inspect incoming goods for silverfish, particularly second-hand furniture and books. Make sure leaking pipes and taps are fixed, as the moist environment can provide an excellent breeding ground for silverfish. If you notice the signs of silverfish activity or damage, call your local trusted Flick office on 1300 270 019 to arrange a booking.
Common Silverfish Species
Silverfish
Apppearance
Silvery grey, with a flattened body and tapered tail like a fish. Up to 15mm in length, 2 long antennae. They have three long appendages at the end of their body.
Lifestyle
Silverfish all have one feature in common – they do a love dance before mating! They then lay eggs in clusters of 2-20 in cracks, crevices and sometimes between food and clothing. Signs of an infestation of silverfish include droppings – which are small, spherical and black in colour, plus damage to books, photos and carpet.
Habits
Silverfish feed on sugars and carbohydrates. Their diet in the wild includes protein-rich foods like grains, fibres and vegetables. Inside, they’re attracted to paper, cardboard, carpet and fabrics. Silverfish are excellent at hiding and favour dark, humid areas where they can munch away undisturbed.
I found Silverfish! Help!
Don't worry, we're here to help. Follow these steps to stay safe until help arrives!
Call a Professional
Call Flick Pest Control Immediately.
If you encounter silverfish in your home or business, you may be dealing with an infestation. Don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand – we can help protect your property and ensure the health and safety of those around you. Fill out the form below or call 1300 270 019 today.
Leave the Silverfish Alone
Trust Flick Pest Control to handle the situation
Our pest control technicians have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to effectively and safely eliminate pests from your home or business. Attempting to treat silverfish on your own can be risky and may not fully eradicate the problem.
We will and ensure a safe and effective outcome for your property.
There May be More!
Don’t Go Looking Around!
Flick’s pest control experts will perform a thorough inspection of the property to identify any areas where silverfish may be present, followed by the development of a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the situation. By implementing effective pest control strategies, we can help ensure a pest-free environment for you.