Centipedes

What do centipedes eat?

Centipedes are predators; bugs are their primary prey. They hunt bugs and subdue them with their venom. Some of the bugs centipedes enjoy most are cockroaches, spiders, ants, and crickets. In a way, they’re kind of helpful, but that doesn’t mean you should allow them to infest your home or outdoor living spaces.

Do centipedes bite?

Yes, centipedes can deliver venomous bites. A bite from a large centipede can feel like a bee sting. But house centipedes do not cause a severe bite like this—in fact, they rarely bite at all, even when handled.

Are centipedes dangerous?

Although other species of centipedes can post a threat to health, the house centipedes in Louisiana are not considered dangerous.

What attracts centipedes?

Centipedes are always on the lookout for food and suitable hunting spots. If they cannot find enough food, they will move to a different area. They typically search for food under logs, rocks, and other objects so these places can attract them. Centipedes are also drawn to damp and humid areas as they need moisture for themselves and their prey. If you have fire wood, dead branches, or lumber, centipedes will be attracted to these as well.

What are the signs of a centipede problem?

You will easily notice if you have a centipede issue; you will see them. They may show up on interior walls and ceilings, as well as on your floors, in potted plants, near floor drains, by leaking faucets or hoses, etc.

How do you tell the difference between centipedes and millipedes?

Millipedes and centipedes are common multi-legged bugs that may enter Louisiana homes. To tell the difference between these two pests, use this simple guide:

• Millipede legs are short, while centipede legs are long and jointed.
• Millipede legs extend downward, while centipede legs shoot out from the sides of the bug.
• Millipedes have a hard shell, while centipedes are soft-bodied.
   

You should not have trouble telling these two bugs apart. However, if you need assistance, remember that your Anti-Pest service team can help. Contact us by phone, text, or email for help with identification or to request a service visit.

How do I get rid of centipedes?

If you have found centipedes in or around your home, contact Anti-Pest for help. We serve Bossier City, Shreveport, and surrounding areas in Bossier, Caddo, and DeSoto Parishes. Our locally owned and family-operated pest control company offers year-round home pest control services targeting centipedes and other pests that infest houses. We also offer commercial pest control solutions!

How can I keep centipedes out?

You can use prevention methods to keep centipedes out of your home. Address the attractants we listed above and seal your home's exterior.

Contact Anti-Pest today if you’ve already discovered centipedes or other pests in your structure!