Silverfish

The insects are known for their fish-like shape and silvery appearance. They prefer warm, humid dark locations and are commonly found scurrying in bathrooms, kitchens, basements or attics. They live for two to eight years and within that time, can lay up to 100 eggs. Though not typically harmful to humans, silverfish are tiny eating machines and continually search for starches and sugars. They survive by feasting on anything made of paper including books, photographs wallpaper and the adhesive. The insects will attack clothing or other material, carpet, leather and household dust. Kitchen cupboards containing cereal, flour, grains or other food stuffs are at their mercy. Seeing silverfish in the open typically means that an infestation has occurred, which requires the help of a professional exterminator.