Centipedes are scary-looking pests. Some might argue that they are scarier than spiders. All we know for certain is that they do not belong inside area homes. These long arthropods are a huge problem for homeowners and are not leaving any time soon. Here is the key to keeping centipedes away from your property and everything you should know about pest control in the Greater Chicago area. Call our team today for immediate services to deal with these pests. For more information about centipedes in Greater Chicago, keep reading.

How To Identify Centipedes

Some people believe that all long pests are centipedes. This isn’t always the case. There are many species of arthropods that have long, hard-shelled bodies and multiple legs. The two most common long-pests in our area are centipedes and millipedes. Millipedes typically have a larger number of short legs and a tougher exterior, while centipedes have a thinner body and fewer, longer legs.

When it comes to Greater Chicago centipede identification, there are only one species you need to know. It’s called the house centipede. This ⅛ to 6-inch long arthropod is yellowish to dark brown and sometimes has stripes or markings across its body and legs. 

Are Centipedes In Greater Chicago Venomous?

The house centipede is creepy to look at, without a doubt. They are not, however, harmful. They do not possess venom, carry any diseases, and are not aggressive. You should know that this pest can bite. However, it will only do so if it feels directly trapped or threatened and is more likely to use its mouthparts for hunting down a meal.

The truth is, house centipedes are great helpers when it comes to keeping pest populations down. If you find a centipede in your house, safely gather it on a piece of paper and transfer it to your yard or garden. Just be careful as these arthropods move fast. 

What Attracts Centipedes To Greater Chicago Homes

Centipedes love three things, moisture, shelter, and things to eat. When conditions outdoors become hot, dry, cold, or stormy, these long pests look for more comfortable places to live. This usually drives them into nearby buildings.

If the building they enter has plenty of pests to hunt for, centipedes will have no problem living indoors. If there aren’t any bugs, they will wander around and either find a way out or eventually die. To help you keep centipedes and the pests they hunt out of your home, we recommend trying these simple prevention tips. 

  • Seal holes, cracks, and gaps in your home’s exterior foundation using some silicone caulk or liquid cement.
  • Repair damage to external doors and windows and make sure they have things like weatherstripping, door sweeps, and screens to protect them. 
  • Keep unscreened windows and doors closed when they aren’t in use.
  • Address other damages to your home’s exterior that might allow pests a way indoors.

For more help keeping centipedes on your Greater Chicago property from invading your home, involve a professional. 

Professional Centipede Removal Made Simple For Greater Chicago Residents 

Although centipedes are theoretically beneficial creatures, they have no place inside area homes. Get our team involved today to help you keep these annoying arthropods outside where they belong. EcoGuard Pest Control knows what attracts centipedes and how to deter these pests from area homes. It is all part of our comprehensive general pest control.

All you have to do is get in touch with our team and find a solution that best fits your needs. Call now to discuss your options and find a treatment time that works best for your Greater Chicago home and property.