Co Kildare accounts for the second most callouts for silverfish infestations

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, experienced an increase of 32% in the number of callouts regarding silverfish in December 2018 compared to the same period the previous year.

Approximately the same length as the diameter of a one euro coin, the nocturnal insects are thriving in bathrooms and kitchens around the country as homeowners sleep. The most affected counties include Dublin (53%)*, Kildare (9%), Meath (5%), and Galway (4%).

These ugly, wingless, torpedo shaped insects are characterised by a silvery-blue colour, tiny scales and 3 bristles at the end of their abdomen. Once silverfish access a property, they lay up to twenty eggs every day, so a small problem can quickly become a large one with this species of insect.

Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager for Rentokil is advising homeowners to proof their homes to prevent insects from settling in: “Silverfish require damp and humid conditions and thrive in kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms and other dark, isolated areas. Fixing leaks in pipework, improving ventilation and using dehumidifiers can help discourage silverfish. They feed on starch, cellulose, and sugar, so they can damage a variety of common items such as books, paper, wallpaper, and paintings. In small numbers silverfish are not really a problem and you can easily get rid of them, but a large infestation can be a serious issue for your home or business.”

Eggs are hidden in tiny cracks or crevices, making them extremely difficult to locate. Silverfish thrive in cool, moist and damp areas and can feed on human debris such as dead skin and hair.

Top spring-cleaning tips to banish silverfish:

Deny them food by vacuuming and keeping dust and debris to a minimum.
Store food in containers with tightly sealed lids.
Homes and businesses should also dehumidify their premises through the use of fans, dehumidifiers, or by opening windows to air them out.
Make sure all cracks in walls and skirting boards are filled.

For information about Rentokil services, visit www.rentokil.ie or call 1890 666 444