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Home » Pests » Centipedes

All About Centipedes

Unwelcome House Guests: Why Centipedes Show Up in Your Home
Centipedes

Quick Facts about Centipedes

Scientific Family
Chilopoda
Number of Known Species
Over 3,000
Typical Habitat
Damp, dark places like basements and crawl spaces

Centipedes Identification Guide

Physical Characteristics

Centipedes are long, flattened arthropods with multiple body segments, each containing a single pair of legs. The number of legs varies by species but can range from 15 to over 300. Their bodies are typically brown or reddish-brown, and they have long, sensitive antennae that help them navigate dark environments. A key feature is their venomous claws located behind their head, which they use to immobilize prey. Despite their fearsome appearance, most centipedes are more of a nuisance than a threat.

Common Species

  • House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata)
  • Eastern Red Centipede (Scolopocryptops sexspinosus)
  • Stone Centipede (Lithobiomorpha)

Centipedes Behavior and Biology

Centipedes are nocturnal hunters, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small arthropods. They use their venom to subdue prey before consuming them. Centipedes prefer dark, damp environments like basements, crawl spaces, and under mulch or debris outside. They reproduce by laying eggs in soil or organic material, and some species can live for several years. Unlike millipedes, centipedes are fast-moving predators rather than slow-moving scavengers.

How We Treat for Centipedes

Our centipede treatment approach focuses on both eliminating existing infestations and preventing future problems.

  1. Thorough Inspection – We check basements, crawl spaces, and other dark, damp areas where centipedes hide. Entry points, such as cracks and gaps, are also identified.
  2. Interior Treatment – We apply a targeted repellent insecticide along baseboards and areas with known centipede activity.
  3. Exterior Treatment – Granular insecticides are used around the foundation, mulch beds, and moisture-prone areas to reduce populations before they enter the home.
  4. Moisture Control Recommendations – Since centipedes thrive in humid conditions, we advise customers to improve drainage, seal gaps, and reduce clutter in basements and crawl spaces.
  5. Ongoing Prevention – Our quarterly pest plan includes follow-ups to monitor activity and maintain control, ensuring that centipedes don’t return.

Common Questions about Centipedes

How do centipedes get into my home?

Centipedes enter homes through cracks, gaps, and poorly sealed doors and windows. They are drawn to damp, dark spaces like basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms.

Are centipedes dangerous?

Centipedes have venomous claws used to catch prey, but their bites are rare and typically result in mild swelling and pain. They are more of a nuisance than a threat to humans.

What attracts centipedes to my house?

Moisture and food sources attract centipedes. Homes with high humidity, cluttered basements, or insect activity provide an ideal environment for them.

Will centipedes go away on their own?

If conditions remain favorable (moisture, food, shelter), centipedes will continue to thrive. Proper pest control and moisture management are key to eliminating them.

How long does it take to get rid of centipedes?

With our targeted treatments, you should see a significant reduction in centipede activity within days. Ongoing control ensures they don’t return.

Does your treatment plan cover other pests too?

Yes! Our quarterly pest control plan covers a wide range of common household pests, including ants, spiders, roaches, and more, in addition to centipedes.

What can I do to prevent centipedes from coming back?

Reducing moisture, sealing entry points, and keeping storage areas clean and uncluttered will help prevent future centipede infestations. Regular pest control treatments also play a key role in long-term prevention.

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