Centipede Identification & Prevention

Centipedes are arthropods that have long, flat, segmented bodies. They range in color from yellow-gray to dark brown.

One pair of legs extends from each body segment; centipedes use their legs to move quickly. Despite their name meaning "hundred leggers," different kinds of centipedes have different numbers of legs. Centipedes generally have 15 to 177 pairs of legs, depending on the size and species.

A centipede's first pair of limbs end in sharp claws and contain venom glands that help the centipede capture and paralyze prey. This predatory species feeds on various insects like spiders and flies, helping to control their populations. An interesting fact about centipedes is that despite being exceptional hunters, they have poor vision. To find and capture their prey, they rely on touch and vibrations.

Though centipedes do not pose significant dangers to people, they are problematic, and you should avoid contact with them as much as possible. The biggest issue with centipedes is that they are capable of biting people. While they are not actively aggressive, they will deliver their painful bites to prevent themselves from harm. Despite being painful, the good news is that centipede venom isn't typically potent enough to trigger serious allergic reactions. Aside from unpleasant encounters, regularly discovering centipedes in your home generally indicates a moisture problem you need to address.

If you're constantly finding centipedes in your basement or other places in your home, it usually means they're finding food and moisture. Things like leaky pipes, poor ventilation, and rotting wood attract the attention of these moisture-loving pests and the insects that they like to hunt. The more insect activity you have in or around your home, the more attractive your property is to these predators. 

If you are concerned about the centipede problem, the best thing to do is call us to schedule a pest control service. We'll perform our top-notch pest control services to solve your centipede problem as soon as possible. After service, we'll check in to ensure you're happy and haven't seen any more pest issues. Contact us today to get a free quote!

Outside, centipedes live near our homes in the soil under the debris of mulch, leaves, and trash cans and can easily use our homes as a place of respite. Since centipedes can't effectively control their temperature and moisture levels, they migrate towards areas of moisture during periods of very hot and dry weather.

Those centipedes that have found their way into your home are typically found in damp areas like bathrooms, closets, and basements. You won't usually see them during the day because they love to forage for food at night. Because they are nocturnal and hide in the dark recesses of your home, it can be tricky to identify a centipede infestation in its infancy. 

Finding a creepy, crawly centipede in your house isn't fun. Midstate Termite & Pest Control is here to help you get rid of pests and centipedes from your home. Our 100% guaranteed home pest control services in Cookeville and Crossville, Tennessee, ensure these pests don't bother you. 

We understand the need to live without worrying about pests in every room. We have extensive experience treating insects, rodents, and bugs. Our friendly, compassionate team will get rid of your centipedes. Contact Midstate Termite & Pest Control for your free centipede inspection today!

By implementing the following prevention tips, you can do your part to ensure centipedes don't come into your home. 

• Use Dehumidifiers In Moist Areas. Centipedes love moisture, and they are usually found in bathrooms and basements. Dehumidifiers help pull moisture out of the air, leaving centipedes without their preferred environment.
• Seal Cracks Around Your Home. Centipedes easily crawl through tiny cracks and crevices. Seal any cracks around dryer vents, window frames, and door frames.
• Clean Your Yard. Dead leaves and debris on your lawn attract centipedes. Get rid of large compost piles or piles of mulch and decaying plant matter that may attract centipedes.

For professional centipede control, call us today.