Some pests freak people out so much, they don’t even want to think about them. That being said, getting folks to willingly learn about insects is difficult. But moving past the discomfort is necessary to get information on identification and prevention. If you want to put distance between yourself and pesky critters, you have to do your research.
Centipedes and millipedes are two types of bugs the general public doesn’t know much about. Besides having a reputation for looking wormy and having lots of legs, they’re elusive to most Worcester home and business owners. Not only can they frighten or annoy you, but they can also do a number on your skin by causing rashes. Get the 411 on them and the extermination methods of Big Blue Bug Solutions so you can keep centipedes and millipedes away.
The Appearance, Behavior, & Risks of Centipedes & Millipedes
Centipedes vary in size from less than an inch to five inches long. They range in color and pattern too, but the majority are brown or red-orange. Their segmented bodies are flat and stretched out and topped with long antennae. They are able to run quickly with their 15 to 177 legs. At night, they use their claws to catch and eat other bugs, such as worms and spiders. Prey are debilitated by their venom. Having centipedes in your home means you have other bugs that centipedes are hunting.
North American millipedes are about an inch long or less. Their rigid, slender, segmented bodies are brown or black. They too have many legs; the greatest known number is 750. These arthropods would rather be outdoors as they need organic matter for feeding. Around leaves, decaying plants, logs, and mulch is where they will be. They also hide under garbage cans and rocks. If the weather becomes too dry or hot, they’ll enter properties through foundation cracks, vents, and doors.
It is important to understand three things about centipedes and millipedes:
- Hang out spots: Centipedes and millipedes thrive in moisture and prefer darkness, so you’re liable to find them near drains, tubs, basements, garages, closets, and laundry rooms.
- Infestation signs: There’s a strong chance you have an infestation if you see these creatures during the daytime because they’re nocturnal.
- Hazards: If you’re bitten by or if you handle a centipede, you’ll experience some mild pain and skin irritation. When you crush them, there will be a stain. Millipedes release a defensive fluid that will cause skin blisters and inflammation.
Preventing Centipedes & Millipedes
Take these steps to make your property less appealing to centipedes & millipedes:
- Fix leaks or moisture issues.
- Keep gutters and air vents clean.
- Utilize dehumidifiers.
- Decrease clutter, and don’t have storage items stacked against the wall.
- Regularly vacuum.
- Close open crevices around foundations, doors, and windows.
- Maintain your yard and distance greenery from your door.
- Remove dead leaves and wood from your lawn.
- Clean dog houses and outdoor storage units.
- Call Big Blue Bug Solutions if you have other insects they consume.
Big Blue Bug Solutions Centipede & Millipede Control
Big Blue Bug Solutions has kept many Worcester homes and businesses pest free for over 80 years. We’ve received awards for exhibiting professionalism and expertise. Our staff routinely takes part in industry seminars, and all are licensed and insured. We are proud members of the National Pest Management Association. It’s about reaching and setting the standard for us.
We use only advanced techniques and equipment to make sure centipedes, millipedes, and other critters don’t bother you. There will be no blisters or skin irritation for you, your loved ones, customers, or employees when you have Big Blue on your side. We’ll address and treat entry points, kill the active bugs, and ensure they won’t return. Call us today and get a free quote and inspection!