Silverfish

Silverfish are slender, wingless insects, shiny silver in appearance, approximately 10mm long with three, long bristletails at the end of their body. They can be found in moist places such as kitchens and bathrooms, underneath floors, sinks, in cupboards, and along pipes where they hide during the day and feed during the night. They are extremely fast runners and are sometimes seen trapped in wash hand basins or baths where they are unable to climb out. Silverfish are scavengers and can cause damage in the home by eating materials such as wallpaper, or books and other materials that are high in protein, sugar, starch, cereals. They are easily controlled with sprays.

Where are they found?

The presence of silverfish is an indication of damp conditions.

Silverfish are found in fairly moist areas eg kitchens, larders and mainly in bathrooms and basements
they can also be found in books and paper, damp cupboards, behind skirting boards and loose wallpaper
tell tale signs of silverfish include scales, excrement or yellowish stains on paper or fabric
they feed mainly on small food particles and the paste on the back of wallpaper that has become detached

They are nocturnal and move very rapidly when disturbed - just turning on a light can make them run for cover.
The silverfish feeds mainly on small food particles and the paste on the back of wallpaper that has become detached.

The insects and their eggs can be brought into the home in cardboard boxes, books, papers, starched and rayon fabrics and other carbohydrate materials.