Centipedes and Millipedes

Centipedes and Millipedes

Centipedes and millipedes prefer humid climates which makes Florida the perfect area for them. These insects are generally considered nuisance pests and usually do not cause significant infestations in the homes they are found in. They are not known to damage personal belongings, homes, or food.

Centipedes

Centipedes typically have legs ranging from 10 to 100 depending on the species. They are usually brown and can move very fast across the surfaces they are on present on. They can be distinguished from millipedes by the large pair of antennae on the front of their heads. These insects have venom glands used to immobilize their prey and are active at night. (Insect pictured below in sand)

Millipedes

Millipedes are wormlike insects with a large amount of body segments with each bearing two pairs of legs. These pests will coil up tightly and secrete a foul-smelling liquid when disturbed. These insects feed on decaying vegetation and often found in areas where there is abundant moisture. (Insect pictures above in the hand)

Are Centipedes or Millipedes Dangerous?

No, millipedes are harmless and the worst thing they are capable of is releasing a foul smell when threatened. Centipedes do have a venom gland that they use to immobilize their prey, but the venom is not strong enough to be lethal to humans. Centipede bites from smaller species cannot penetrate human skin, however bites from the larger species can be painful.

Centipedes and Millipedes can easily climb walls and enter homes through small openings. These pests are usually more prevalent in areas with higher humidity (centipedes, bathrooms and closets) and decaying vegetation (millipedes).

Reducing moisture around the home can go a long way in taking care of these insects. Treating with pesticides is another remedy but typically with millipedes these insects die not to long after entering the home. Ensuring that door sweeps, and other devices meant to keep insects out around the home are in good condition helps as well.

Centipedes and Millipedes can enter homes from small openings. We recommend inspecting the weather stripping around your home to ensure access points are limited. We also recommend cutting down on moisture issues on the inside (high humidity) and outside (excessive watering) of the home to eliminate conducive conditions that can attribute to the issues. If mulch is around the exterior of your home, we recommend only putting 2 to 4 inches of mulch so they mulch remains dry most of the time.

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