What are centipedes and millipedes?

Centipedes and millipedes have similarities and differences, but it can be helpful to understand exactly what you’re dealing with when you find either of these pests in your house. If you compare a centipede vs. a millipede, here’s what you’ll find:

  • Centipedes are typically larger than millipedes. They range in size from an eighth of an inch to six inches, while millipedes can be anywhere from a sixteenth of an inch to five inches.
  • Centipedes are usually yellowish or brown in color, while millipedes tend to be brownish or black with some red or orange markings.
  • Centipedes can have anywhere from 15 to 177 pairs of legs on the sides of their bodies, while millipedes can have anywhere from 30 to over 300 pairs of legs under their bodies.
  • Centipedes have a more flattened body than millipedes which have rounded bodies.
  • Both centipedes and millipedes are nocturnal.
  • Centipedes eat insects and spiders, while millipedes eat plant materials.

One thing most people would agree on is that both pests can be startling to come upon because of their creepy-crawly appearance.

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Are centipedes and millipedes dangerous?

It’s best to avoid centipede bites since they hurt and will usually swell like a bee sting. Although their venom is not lethal to humans, it does pack a painful punch. Millipedes won’t bite, but they can release a foul-smelling fluid that can be dangerous to small animals and can cause blisters in humans. Neither centipedes nor millipedes are known to cause damage to the homes they invade.

Why do I have a centipede and millipede problem?

A centipede or millipede infestation is most likely to occur if your home is high in moisture and humidity. They’ll also be more likely to be on your property outside if there is a lot of moisture on your lawn or in plant beds. If you have a lot of centipedes or millipedes outside your house, there’s a bigger chance that they’ll find their way inside.

Where will I find centipedes and millipedes?

If they get inside your house, you’re most likely to find millipedes and centipedes in your basementcrawl space, bathroom, or other rooms with a lot of humidity. You may also find them in potted plants.

Outside, you’ll probably find them under rocks, in rotting wood, and in other moist areas.

How do I get rid of centipedes and millipedes?

If you have a centipede or millipede infestation, you’ll want to contact the service professionals at Mantis Pest Solutions. Identifying a centipede or millipede infestation can be difficult because they are nocturnal and don’t often come out in the open during the day. Still, our trained experts know where to look and what to look for to find the infestation. Our Overland Park pest control will fully care for your pest problem.

How can I prevent centipedes and millipedes in the future?

If you’re wondering how to prevent centipedes and millipedes from getting into your house, reducing the humidity is a great place to start. Use dehumidifiers and make sure you have good ventilation, especially in rooms that commonly have a lot of moisture. It’s also essential to keep moisture levels low around your property and to seal openings around the exterior of your house. For more help with home pest control, contact Mantis Pest Solutions today!

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Derek was awesome. He called about 30 minutes before the predetermined appointment time. He was right on time. He was very helpful; very professional. He asked of my concerns. After our discussion, he got to work. He left no stone unturned; very thorough inside and out. He wasn't going to leave until he knew I was satisfied. Great experience and great customer service. Thanks Derek!
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Mantis is great quality at a reasonable prices. I've used them for about a year and my insect issues are non-existent. Scheduling is a breeze and they come when they say they will come. Never been an issue having a technician come out between regular service intervals as well. Derek was super polite, professional and punctual. In addition to him taking care of the wasps nests, he even applied a granular barrier in the event rain washed out the spray application. Overall, a highly satisfied customer!
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