Centipede Infestation Guide – Prevention & Control

Often found indoors, especially in damp areas, these centipedes are known for their speed and ability to capture small pests.

Found in various tropical regions around the world, these centipedes can grow quite large and are known for their potent venom.

Often encountered in leaf litter and soil, these centipedes are important decomposers in terrestrial ecosystems.

The centipede life cycle commences with the laying of eggs, a phase that remains shrouded from the world. Typically, adult female centipedes deposit their eggs in concealed, sheltered areas. These sites could be underground in soil, beneath leaf litter, or within other protective environments. The eggs are secure and remain unseen, as the centipede prepares for the next generation.

Centipede nymphs are not born with all their leg pairs but gain more with each molt. As they grow, they shed their exoskeleton, a process known as molting. With each molt, centipedes add leg pairs and gradually assume their adult appearance. This stage can span several months to several years, contingent on the centipede species and environmental factors like temperature and food availability.

As temperatures rise and the world awakens from winter slumber, centipedes begin to stir. Spring signals a resurgence of centipede activity. The warming weather and increased moisture levels offer ideal conditions for these arthropods to become more active. They emerge from their overwintering hideouts, seeking prey and potential mates.

With the arrival of autumn and the drop in temperatures, centipedes start preparing for the colder months ahead. They may retreat to sheltered areas or burrow underground, reducing their surface activity. Their behavior during this season is more subdued as they conserve energy and avoid extreme weather conditions.

Centipedes are widespread, inhabiting a wide array of ecosystems across the globe. These habitats encompass diverse landscapes, from forests and grasslands to deserts and tropical rainforests. Each centipede species has its niche, with some preferring the leaf litter on the forest floor, while others thrive in burrows or under rocks.

Centipedes have a predilection for moisture. They seek out habitats that provide the right humidity levels for their survival. Dark and damp environments, such as the leaf litter, provide ideal conditions. Centipedes are often found under rocks, logs, and fallen leaves, where moisture is retained, and prey is abundant.

Centipedes are drawn to damp environments, making areas with excess moisture prime attractants. Leaky pipes, damp basements, and crawl spaces create a welcoming atmosphere for centipedes seeking humidity.

Centipedes can sometimes venture indoors during certain seasons. In colder months, they may seek warmth and shelter inside our homes. Conversely, during spring, they become more active and might inadvertently find their way indoors.

Centipedes are naturally nocturnal creatures and are more active in the dark. Dark, undisturbed areas in homes, like closets, attics, and basements, provide a refuge and ideal hiding spots.

Centipedes are adept at squeezing through tiny openings. If your home has gaps around windows, doors, or foundation walls, these creatures can exploit these entry points.

The most obvious sign is the sight of centipedes themselves. If you consistently spot these multi-legged arthropods in your home, especially in dark, damp areas like basements or bathrooms, it’s likely you have an infestation.

Some centipede species construct silken nests to protect their eggs. These nests are usually concealed in dark, sheltered areas like crawl spaces or behind baseboards.

Inspect your home for possible entry points. Gaps around doors, windows, or foundation walls may provide an avenue for centipedes to enter.

Centipedes molt as they grow, shedding their exoskeletons. Finding these discarded skins in hidden corners or near their hiding spots can be a sign of an infestation.

Centipedes are drawn to moisture. If you have persistent humidity or moisture issues in your home, it can make it more attractive to centipedes.

Centipedes are known to take shelter in the damp, cool environment of basements. Dark corners and moisture-prone areas provide them with ideal hiding spots.

Dark and seldom-disturbed closets can be attractive hiding places. Centipedes may reside among your clothing or other stored items.

Any room in your home with dark, undisturbed corners can become a hiding place for centipedes. These include storage rooms, utility areas, and even wall voids.

These often-neglected areas beneath your home can become centipede havens. The combination of darkness and humidity appeals to these arthropods.

These spaces may be home to centipedes seeking refuge from the elements. Insulation materials and undisturbed corners are potential hiding spots.

Centipedes are drawn to moisture. Kitchens, with their sinks and plumbing, may also provide suitable hiding spots.

While rare, some centipede species have venomous fangs and can deliver a painful bite if provoked or handled. The pain is typically localized and resembles a bee sting, causing discomfort but not severe harm.

Centipedes are carnivorous predators, and they play a role in controlling insect populations. This can be seen as both beneficial and harmful, depending on your perspective. They may reduce the number of nuisance insects but can also prey on beneficial insects.

Their unusual appearance and sudden appearances can cause psychological discomfort for some individuals. The presence of centipedes in homes may lead to anxiety and stress.

Centipedes are attracted to moisture. Reduce excess humidity by fixing any leaks, improving ventilation, and using dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.

Since centipedes feed on other insects, controlling their prey can indirectly reduce centipede populations. Implement effective pest control measures for other insects in your home.

To avoid future centipede infestations, maintain a clean, well-ventilated home, regularly inspect potential entry points, and address moisture issues.

Identify and seal potential entry points where centipedes may be infiltrating your home. This includes gaps around doors, windows, foundation walls, and utility penetrations.

Some natural remedies like diatomaceous earth or boric acid can be used as non-toxic alternatives. These substances, when applied in problem areas, can help eliminate centipedes by dehydrating them.

Centipedes are attracted to damp environments. Address moisture issues by fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and using dehumidifiers in areas like basements and bathrooms.

Since centipedes prey on other insects, control other insect populations in your home. Implement pest control measures for pests like ants, spiders, and silverfish to reduce centipede food sources.

Maintain a clean, well-ventilated home to discourage centipedes. Regularly inspect and maintain your home’s exterior to deter these arthropods from seeking shelter.

Inspect your home for gaps and cracks around doors, windows, foundation walls, and utility penetrations. Seal these entry points to prevent centipedes from infiltrating.

Consider using natural remedies like diatomaceous earth or boric acid in areas where centipedes are a concern. These substances, when applied correctly, can help deter centipedes and other pests.