Earwigs & Silverfish

What Are Earwigs And Silverfish?

Earwigs and silverfish are two different pests in appearance, but act very similarly regarding infestations.

Earwigs are about 1/4 to 1 inch long with dark brown coloring. They have pincers and tiny wings, but rarely fly.

Silverfish are about 3/4 an inch long with metallic-looking scales. They have a tear-drop-shaped body, three-bristle-like tails, and long antennae, but are wingless.

Both of these pests are nocturnal, so you may not see them.

Earwig Control

Earwigs and silverfish are both considered nuisance pests, meaning they don't spread diseases to people. While this is true, these pests aren't entirely innocent. Earwigs can bite, and although they won't break the skin, this bite can be painful and cause some irritation. Silverfish can cause some damage due to their eating habits. This pest will eat just about anything, including soap, coffee, linen, glue, and dandruff. While these pests pale compared to the problems caused by other home-invading pests, you should never tolerate them in your home.

Earwigs and silverfish are occasional invaders because they don't usually infest homes year-round, but instead make their way inside as they look for a place to overwinter. If you have earwigs or silverfish in your home, there are likely cracks in the foundation or other similar entry points.

Where Will I Find Earwigs And Silverfish?

Earwigs:

Outdoor Areas: Earwigs are often found in outdoor environments, especially in mulch, compost, and decaying organic matter. They may also inhabit garden areas, hiding in moist soil and under rocks or debris.

Indoor Areas: Inside the home, earwigs are attracted to dark and damp spaces. Common indoor locations include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. They may seek refuge in crack and crevices around plumbing fixtures or in areas with high humidity

Silverfish:

Bathrooms: Silverfish are commonly found in bathrooms due to the high humidity levels. They are attracted to damp areas and can often be spotted near sinks, showers, and bathtubs.

Kitchens: Silverfish may be found in kitchens, especially around areas with water sources like sinks and dishwashers. They are known to feed on starchy substances and can be attracted to food crumbs.

Basements and Crawl Spaces: Dark and damp environments like basements and crawl spaces provide ideal conditions for silverfish. They may hide in cardboard boxes, stored papers, or other cellulose-rich materials.

Attics: Silverfish can also be present in attics, where they may find suitable conditions for harborage. Insulation, stored items, and the overall environment in attics can attract silverfish

Earwig Control Virginia Beach

If you see earwigs or silverfish in your home, you should look to professional pest control in Hampton Roads, VA. At Diamond Exterminators and Crawlspace Solutions, we offer control and prevention for pests like earwigs and silverfish through our general pest control services. We customize these services to the needs of each customer. Available weekly, monthly, or quarterly, and offering two free reservices throughout the calendar year, your home will have the protection it needs year-round. Give us a call at Diamond Exterminators and Crawlspace Solutions to learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control we provide to meet all your pest control needs.

How Do I Prevent Earwigs And Silverfish In The Future?

While they aren't dangerous, no one wants these creepy-crawly pests in their house. To prevent future infestation of earwigs and silverfish, use these tips:

• Fill in any cracks and holes in the exterior of your home; this includes repairing damaged screens, installing weatherstripping, and putting covers on vents.
• Reduce moisture on the exterior by keeping gutters clear and removing organic debris, especially near the foundation. Repair any leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and use dehumidifiers on the interior.
• Keep both your yard and the interior of your home clutter-free to reduce places where these pests can hide.

For more pest prevention tips, speak to one of our experts at Diamond Exterminators and Crawlspace Solutions!