Centipedes and Millipedes

What Are Centipedes and Millipedes?

While both are multi-legged arthropods, centipedes and millipedes are not the same — and their differences matter when it comes to pest control.

• Centipedes are fast-moving predators. They have flat, segmented bodies, and each body segment is equipped with one pair of legs. Some house centipedes can have up to 15 pairs of legs and scurry quickly across floors, walls, and ceilings. They’re hunters, preying on other insects, such as spiders, cockroaches, and silverfish.
• Millipedes, on the other hand, are slow-moving detritivores. They have more cylindrical bodies, and most segments have two pairs of legs. Unlike their speedy cousins, millipedes curl up defensively when threatened and prefer to feed on decaying organic matter.

Despite their differences, both species are often lumped together under the “gross bug” category and are frequent visitors to damp, dark areas in and around homes.

Are They Dangerous?

Let’s start by clearing up one of the biggest questions homeowners ask:

Are centipedes and millipedes dangerous?

Short answer: Not really. But let’s break that down.

• Centipedes do have venom. They use it to paralyze their insect prey. While most house centipedes are too small to pierce human skin, larger species can bite if handled, causing mild pain similar to a bee sting. These bites are rarely serious and typically only happen when centipedes are threatened.
• Millipedes do not bite or sting. Instead, some species can secrete a mild toxin or irritating liquid when threatened. While this isn’t harmful to most people, it can cause skin discoloration or irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. Pets that try to eat millipedes might drool or vomit, but severe reactions are infrequent.

So, while neither is dangerous in the way that venomous spiders or wasps might be, they’re not ideal houseguests, especially if you have kids, pets, or a strong dislike of creepy crawlers.

Why Are They in Your Home?

If you’ve spotted centipedes or millipedes in your house, it’s not random. Their presence is usually an indication of underlying issues:

1. Moisture

Both species are drawn to moisture. Basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, under-sink cabinets, and laundry rooms are ideal environments. If your home has a leak, poor ventilation, or excess humidity, you’re more likely to see these pests.

2. Shelter

Centipedes and millipedes love the dark. During the day, they hide in cracks, crevices, and clutter. At night, they come out in search of food (in the case of centipedes) or decaying matter (in the case of millipedes).

3. Food Source

Centipedes eat other pests. If you have an underlying insect problem — think cockroaches, ants, or spiders — centipedes may move in to take advantage of the buffet.

Millipedes, however, typically enter homes by accident when outdoor conditions change. Heavy rain, drought, or extreme temperatures can drive them inside seeking moisture or shelter.

How to Prevent Centipedes and Millipedes from Entering Your Home

The best form of pest control is prevention. Here’s how to make your home less inviting to these unwelcome invaders:

1. Eliminate Moisture

• Fix leaking pipes and faucets.
• Try using dehumidifiers in areas prone to dampness, such as basements and bathrooms.
• Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and crawl spaces.
• Install exhaust fans in kitchens and laundry rooms to improve ventilation.

2. Seal Entry Points

• Check for cracks around windows, doors, foundations, and vents.
• Install weather stripping and door sweeps.
• Repair torn screens and gaps around utility lines.

3. Reduce Clutter

Centipedes love hiding in cluttered spaces. Cardboard boxes, storage bins, and piles of laundry provide perfect hiding spots. Keep things tidy and organized, especially in basements and garages.

4. Yard Maintenance

• Keep mulch, leaves, and wood piles away from your foundation to prevent damage.
• Trim vegetation near the house to reduce shade and moisture.
• Cleaning out gutters and downspouts can help prevent water accumulation.

Myths vs. Facts

Let’s debunk some common myths and replace them with the facts.

Myth 1: Centipedes lay eggs in your ears.

Fact: This is pure fiction. Centipedes don’t target humans in any way other than avoiding them.

Myth 2: Millipedes are just harmless worms.

Fact: While they aren’t aggressive or venomous, millipedes are not worms. They are arthropods and can produce irritants that are unpleasant to deal with.

Myth 3: If you see one centipede, there’s a nest nearby.

Fact: Centipedes are solitary. Seeing one doesn’t necessarily mean an infestation, though repeated sightings may signal a bigger issue — likely an abundant food source (i.e., other pests).

Myth 4: Killing centipedes is the best pest control strategy.

Fact: Centipedes actually help reduce populations of other household pests. While they might look frightening, they serve as a natural form of pest control — albeit an unwelcome one for most homeowners.

When Should You Call a Pest Control Company?

If you’ve tried sealing cracks, reducing moisture, and decluttering — but the centipedes and millipedes keep coming. Then it may be time to bring in the pros of Tactical Pest!

Here are some clear signs:

• Frequent Sightings: Seeing centipedes or millipedes regularly in your home, especially during the day, may indicate a serious problem.
• Underlying Pest Issues: If centipedes are thriving, that means they’re finding plenty of food. A pest control company can identify and eliminate the root cause of the problem (e.g., cockroach or ant infestations).
• Moisture Problems You Can’t Solve: If your home has chronic dampness or humidity issues that attract these pests, professionals can recommend long-term solutions.
• Peace of Mind: Sometimes, it’s simply about comfort. If the presence of these bugs makes you uneasy in your own home, the pest control experts at Tactical Pest and Termite Solutions can create a plan tailored to your environment and concerns.

Final Thoughts

Centipedes and millipedes may not be the most dangerous or destructive pests, but their presence can be unsettling — and in some cases, a sign of more serious issues within the home. By understanding what attracts them, how to prevent their entry, and separating fact from fiction, you’ll be better equipped to protect your home.

And remember, pest control isn’t just about extermination — it’s about creating a safe, comfortable living space. If these many-legged intruders are overstaying their welcome, don’t hesitate to call Tactical Pest and Termite Solutions, your local pest control company based in Mint Hill, NC.

After all, no one wants to share their shower, basement, or laundry room with a bug that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie.