Silverfish in Kansas

Behavior, Diet & Habits
Capable of thriving in most climates, silverfish prefer to dwell in dark, damp areas such as basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms. Moreover, they are especially attracted to paper and damp clothing. Silverfish are commonly found in stored boxes in garages and sheds.

Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars and starches. Cellulose, shampoos, glue in books, linen, silk, and dead insects may be food sources. Further, they have been found in unopened food packages.

Signs of Infestation
Most often, homeowners detect silverfish when they find one on the floor or in a sink or bathtub. Their feeding damage also can indicate their presence, along with their tiny pepper-like feces.

Behavior, Diet & Habits
Both young and adult firebrats share the same or very similar environments, so all ages of the insect will be located together in suitable habitats. Firebrat eggs are laid in batches of about 50 and hatch in a little less than two weeks, which explains why a homeowner may suddenly see a large number of small firebrats in places they’ve never been seen before. Firebrats will live for about three to four years and molt throughout their lifetime. They feed on materials high in carbohydrates and protein. Examples of good sources of food for firebrats are the glue in books and wallpaper. Infestations in a home or business can begin when infested books, papers, cardboard boxes, shipping cartons, or furniture are brought into the home.

Signs of Infestation
Firebrats are primarily seen in environments that are generally dark and warmer than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, including near dryers, hot water heaters, steam pipes, ovens, and attics. Further, firebrats may be found in bathtubs since they often are trapped in the tub as they seek moisture.