About Centipedes (Class Chilopoda)

Activity: Nocturnal Hunters of the Insect World

Centipedes are nocturnal predators, emerging at night to hunt for insects, spiders, and other small arthropods. Fast-moving and elusive, they prefer cool, damp, and dark environments like basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. While their sudden appearance can be alarming, they generally avoid humans and retreat quickly. However, their presence often indicates underlying issues like high humidity or existing insect infestations.

Diet: What Centipedes Eat & Why It Matters

Centipedes are beneficial hunters that help control populations of:

• Cockroaches

• Silverfish

• Spiders

• Termites

• Other small insects

Despite their role as natural pest controllers, centipedes indoors are a nuisance and a sign of excess moisture or larger pest problems. Their presence suggests a suitable habitat and ample prey within the home.

Size: Varied Yet Startling Appearance

• Most house centipedes range from 2.5 cm to 5 cm in length.

• Some outdoor species can grow up to 15 cm.

• Characterized by their elongated, flattened bodies with 15 to 177 pairs of legs, giving them a "creepy" appearance.

• Their long, delicate antennae and rapid scuttling movements make them easily recognizable.

Nesting Habits: Where Centipedes Live

Centipedes thrive in moist, humid environments, commonly found:

• Under sinks, bathtubs, and in bathrooms

• Basements and crawl spaces

• Beneath leaf litter, stones, and logs outdoors

• Inside wall voids and floor cracks in humid areas
  They are solitary creatures that prefer undisturbed, hidden locations near water sources.

Why Professional Treatment Is Crucial

While centipedes themselves don't damage structures or belongings, their presence signals favorable conditions for other pests. DIY methods often fail to address:

• The root cause of the infestation (moisture & other pests)

• Hidden breeding sites
  Professional pest control focuses on environmental corrections and integrated pest management (IPM) to eliminate both centipedes and their prey, ensuring long-term relief.

Signs of a Centipede Infestation

Watch for these indicators:

• Frequent Sightings: Spotting centipedes indoors, especially at night

• High Humidity Areas: Persistent dampness in basements, bathrooms, or kitchens

• Presence of Other Insects: Ongoing issues with cockroaches, spiders, or silverfish

• Shed Exoskeletons: Found in dark corners or near water sources

Understanding the Problem: Centipede Infestations

Centipedes are often a symptom of deeper problems, like excess humidity and other pest infestations. If conditions remain favorable, their numbers can increase, leading to more frequent sightings indoors.

Over-the-counter sprays offer temporary relief but fail to address the environmental factors attracting centipedes. Professional intervention ensures long-term control by fixing moisture issues and eliminating prey populations.

Our Professional Approach to Centipede Control

 Thorough Inspection

We assess your home’s humidity levels, locate centipede hiding spots, and identify underlying pest problems.

 Targeted Treatment

Safe, effective treatments targeting centipedes, their prey, and the conditions allowing infestations to persist.

 Moisture Control & Prevention

We provide recommendations to reduce humidity and seal entry points to prevent future infestations.