Pest Library

Centipedes Facts &
Information

Protect your home or business from centipedes by learning techniques for
identification and control.

Class Chilopoda

IDENTIFY

Types of Centipedes

What do centipedes look like?

Centipedes are elongated, segmented creatures with a flattened body. They have many legs, with one pair per body segment, giving them a distinct appearance. Their color varies from yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, often with dark markings. Centipedes have long antennae and a pair of venomous pincers near their head, used to capture prey.

Locate them

Where Are Centipede
Found?

Centipedes thrive in moist, dark areas like gardens, forests, basements, and caves, needing humidity and small prey to survive.

Forest Floors

Hidden in soil, under logs, or within leaf litter, these areas provide ideal humidity and protection for centipedes to thrive.

Caves and Burrows

These natural shelters offer constant moisture and darkness, essential for their survival and hunting activities.

Bathrooms and Basements

Indoors, they are drawn to areas with high humidity, like damp corners, drains, and dark storage spaces.

Gardens and Yards

Often found beneath mulch, stones, and decaying leaves, where moisture and shelter are abundant. They hunt small insects and hide from predators.

Pest Treatment

Understanding Centipede
& Prevention

Centipedes enter homes in search of food and shelter. They are drawn to areas with pests like ants, cockroaches, or spiders, which they prey on. Additionally, damp conditions in basements, bathrooms, or kitchens make households an inviting environment for centipedes to thrive.

Centipede Facts

Understanding
Centipede Problems

The more you know about centipede, the better you can predict and control their behavior. Here are some quick facts to help you on your way.

Classification

Centipedes belong to the Class Chilopoda, with common species like Scolopendra hardwickei. They are arthropods, predators, and mostly found in damp habitats.

Risk of Disease

Centipedes don’t spread diseases but their bites can cause pain, swelling, or allergic reactions, particularly from larger, venomous species.

Lifespan

Centipedes live 1 to 6 years, molting multiple times before reaching adulthood, depending on species and environment.

Ecological effect

Centipedes are natural predators, controlling pest populations by feeding on insects and maintaining ecological balance in various habitats.

Eliminate pests and prevent future problems.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Why are centipedes in my home?

Centipedes enter homes for moisture, dark hiding spots, and prey like insects or spiders found in damp areas.

Are centipedes dangerous?

Centipedes are not fatal but can bite, causing pain, redness, or swelling. Larger species may trigger mild allergic reactions.

How can I prevent centipede infestations?

Reduce indoor humidity, seal gaps or cracks, and remove pests that serve as their primary food source.

What is the best way to control centipedes?

Professional pest control treatments target damp zones and eliminate pest infestations, reducing centipede presence effectively.