Spiders & Silverfish
Spiders & Silverfish
What you need to know
Spiders and silverfish are very different and need completely different control methods. Spiders actually hunt silverfish for food, and their habits and behaviors are very different.
Basic Biology
Spiders
Silverfish
Spiders
Female spiders produce an egg sac instead of individual eggs; baby spiders hatch from this sac. These spiderlings then go through several molts as they develop into full adults.
Male spiders of many species will court the female, which is often a risky process for the male, because most of the time, after courting, the male becomes food for the female.
Silverfish
Male silverfish dance before they can mate with a female silverfish. The male lays spermatophores, which the female then takes in using her ovipositor. Depending on the species, the female will lay several eggs each day or lay clusters of eggs ranging from 2 to 20.
Identifying The Problem & Control
Spiders
Entry
Spiders can enter your home in many ways, including through poorly screened doors or windows, and in boxes or other objects they might have hidden in.
Poisonous
Spiders are known for the toxins they produce to hunt and feed on their prey. There are only two species in the United States that are dangerous to humans. Spider toxins have different effects on people and can be painful.
Hunting
Spiders usually enter your home looking for prey. They might spin a web or make other traps to catch their food. There are clear signs that spider activity could be inside your property.
Silverfish
Destructive
Silverfish are known for damaging your property. They feed on carbohydrates and starches, which attracts them to damp paper or clothes.
Humidity
Silverfish can survive in most places but prefer dark, damp environments, so keeping your home less humid is important.