Winter in Georgia usually means fewer bugs, but silverfish are an exception. These small, wingless insects are known for their flat bodies, long antennae, and tiny legs. Their name comes from their fish-like movements and metallic silver scales.
Silverfish tend to breed in properties with wooden structures, piles of yard waste, or areas that offer shelter and food. Unlike many other pests that are more active in warm weather, silverfish become more common during the cooler months.
“These insects proliferate in moist environments, making the fall and winter seasons their time to thrive,” said experts at Active Pest Control in Locust Grove.
The pests prefer dark and damp places such as pantries, bathrooms, or kitchens. Their diet is broad—they feed on starches and sugars but can also eat books, clothing, pasta, bedding, and even shampoo. While they cannot bite humans—“Their jaws aren’t strong enough to pierce human skin, but they are fast and can usually escape predators fairly quickly,” according to Northwest Exterminating experts—they may contaminate food items and damage household belongings. Silverfish can also contribute to allergies.
Homeowners concerned about infestations should keep spaces dry and free of clutter to reduce the likelihood of attracting these pests.
This story was originally published January 8, 2026 at 6:00 AM.
