How do you judge how creepy a pest is? Is it by their shape? Maybe it’s by their color. Many people hold to the idea that the more legs something has the creepier it is. If you fall under this last category, then millipedes are about as creepy as pests come. Some millipedes have over 700 legs and can grow to be upwards of 15 inches long. Thankfully, none of the species of millipede capable of growing this big live in America. That said, millipedes here in Worcester are still annoying pests that love to invade homes. To help keep millipedes out of your home, here are a few things you should know.
A Little About Area Millipedes
The most common species of millipede found here in Worcester is the North American millipede. These dark grey pests are capable of growing to be 4 ½ inches long and have a hard exterior exoskeleton. When threatened North American Millipedes will roll into a ball to protect their undersides which are the most vulnerable part of their bodies. Unlike centipedes, millipedes are relatively slow creatures who like to travel at their own pace.
When outside millipedes tend to live around leaf litter, old logs, and or inside mulch. When inside, these creatures will stick around damp and dark locations such as basements, crawlspaces, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
Are Millipedes Dangerous?
Millipedes are not poisonous, venomous, or capable of carrying or spreading any forms of dangerous disease. The worst they can do is release benzoquinones from their body which can cause mild chemical burns. For this reason, it is not advised to handle these pests with your bare hands. Some individuals are allergic to benzoquinones. To find out your risk, make sure you consult with your doctor.
How To Keep Millipedes Out Of Your Home
Millipedes will get into homes in many ways and for several reasons. To stop them from finding their way into your Worcester home, here are a few prevention tips our experts recommend.
- Thoroughly inspect the exterior of your home for gaps and cracks millipedes could use to get inside. Fill in any potential entry points you find using a caulking gun.
- Check your home’s weather stripping for damages and make repairs as needed.
- Make sure all exterior doors have door sweeps.
- Fix leaky pipes and fixtures around your home.
- Eliminate sources of water build up in and around your property.
- Make sure your gutters are in good working condition.
- Keep grass cut short and landscaping well maintained.
- Water lawns in the early morning so they can dry out by midday.
- Use a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels down.
The Absolute Best Way To Deal With Millipedes
If you keep finding millipedes inside your home and are looking for a quick and reliable way to get and keep them out, we are ready and here to help. At Big Blue Bug Solutions, we specialize in quickly removing and effectively keeping pests out of homes. The best part is that even our most basic pest control plans cover not only millipedes but a variety of other common household pests as well. Say goodbye to pesky ants, centipedes, and cockroaches. You name it, we have your back.
Give us a call today to find out why Big Blue Bug Solutions is Worcester’s premier pest control company and find a plan that best fits you and your home’s needs.