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Hi my name is Luis Gonzalez, with another What’s Bugging You podcast.
House centipedes might seem like little nightmares with their long legs and speedy movements, but they’re actually pretty interesting creatures. At Midway Pest Management, we want to help you understand these critters better and offer some friendly tips on keeping them out of your home.
What Are House Centipedes?
House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are fascinating arthropods, not insects. They’re known for their numerous legs—up to 30 in total!and their quick, skittering movements. Typically, they’re a pale yellow or gray with dark stripes and can grow up to 1.5 inches long, including their legs. Despite their many legs, they’re harmless and just a bit unnerving to look at.
Why Are They Visiting My Home?
House centipedes are nocturnal hunters, meaning they’re most active at night. They come into homes looking for the perfect conditions to live and find food. Midwestern homes, with their basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms, often have the moisture and darkness these centipedes love. They’re drawn to places where they can feast on small insects and spiders, which is why they might be spotted in areas with a lot of tiny pests.
The Good Side of House Centipedes
Believe it or not, house centipedes aren’t all bad! They help keep other pest populations in check by feeding on insects and spiders. So, while they might make you jump a little, they’re doing their part to manage other pests around your home.
How to Keep Them Out
If you’d prefer to keep these critters outside, here are some simple tips:
1. Control Moisture: Centipedes love damp areas. Fix any leaks, use dehumidifiers, and make sure your home is well-ventilated to keep things dry.
2. Seal Gaps: Close off entry points by sealing cracks in walls, floors, and around windows and doors.
3. Declutter: Keep your home tidy. Less clutter means fewer hiding spots for centipedes.
4. Reduce Other Pests: Since centipedes eat insects and spiders, managing these smaller pests can help keep centipedes away.
5. Regular Check-Ups: Regular inspections by a pest control professional can help catch any issues early.
Need a Hand?
Even though house centipedes aren’t dangerous, we understand that they can be a bit unsettling. If you’re dealing with a large number of these critters or have any pest concerns, Midway Pest Management is here to help. Our friendly experts offer personalized pest control solutions to keep your home comfortable and pest-free.
Understanding house centipedes and taking a few proactive steps can go a long way in preventing them from invading your space. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Midway Pest Management. We’re happy to help and to provide effective solutions!
Contact us today at 913-820-9737 for a FREE Consultation and FREE Estimate!