What Are Centipedes?

Centipedes are arthropods belonging to the Chilopoda class of the Myriapoda subphylum and are closely related to insects. They are elongated, segmented creatures with one pair of legs per segment, which gives them their name, as "centi" means hundred and "pede" means feet. Centipedes are found in many habitats worldwide, ranging in size from a few millimeters to over a foot long!

In Raleigh, the most common species of centipede is the house centipede. The house centipede is a long, slender insect typically found indoors. It has a yellowish-brown color with up to 15 pairs of legs, each one much longer than its body segments. The legs are arranged in a manner that allows it to move quickly and easily across walls and other surfaces. The head of a house centipede is broad and flat, with two large, compound eyes and two long, thin antennae. It also has sharp, venomous claws to capture and kill its prey, usually other insects, such as spiders, roaches, and silverfish.

Are Centipedes Dangerous?

Centipedes are generally not dangerous to humans. While some species have venomous claws that they use to subdue their prey, the venom is not usually strong enough to cause serious harm to people. However, a bite from a centipede can be painful and produce swelling, redness, and itching.

Why Do I Have a Centipede Problem?

Centipedes are predators that prey on common pests and insects, such as cockroaches, ants, silverfish, spiders, and more. If you are hosting other infestations, the centipedes are likely attracted to the abundance of prey.

Further, centipedes are attracted to dark, moist places. Be sure to keep your home dry wherever and whenever possible. Centipedes can only survive if they have a consistent source of moisture.