Centipede & Millipede Identification & Prevention

Centipedes and millipedes are both insects belonging to the grouping of arthropods. These insects are classified into Chilopoda and Diplopoda, respectively, and are known for their impressive number of legs. Centipedes have a varying number of legs that range from 30 to 382, while millipedes have legs that range from around 300 to 750. Additionally, centipedes are predatory and carnivorous, while millipedes are detritivores and prefer to feed on decaying matter.

Both centipedes and millipedes can cause problems in your Greater Chicago area property, though in slightly different ways. A millipede infestation is unsightly to see around your property and can result in damage to plants kept both inside and outside as these pests feed on them. Plus, certain species of millipedes produce irritating fluids through special glands that can trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals.

A huge centipede infestation also causes problems for property owners. Again, these pests are unsightly and can ruin the enjoyment of your property when you have them crawling all over the place. Furthermore, centipedes can and will bite humans; they aren’t particularly venomous or disease-transmitting creatures, but their bites can be very painful and result in the risk of an allergic reaction or secondary infection. If you want to avoid centipede bites, you need to safeguard your home from these pests year-round. 

If you have a centipede and millipede problem, the chances are that your property has many of the factors that attract them. Centipedes and millipedes are drawn to areas with excess moisture or humidity, dark and secluded sheltering spots, and easy sources of food such as plant matter and infestations of other insects to prey on. To avoid millipedes and centipedes in your house or inside your Western Chicago business facility, you will need to evaluate and remove access to these factors.

Around your property, you will find centipedes and millipedes hiding out around secluded or damp areas. These areas include spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, crawl spaces, under appliances, and occasionally up in attics. You may also see them outdoors under decaying matter or in gardens.

If you want to get rid of centipedes and millipedes, EcoGuard Pest Control is the best option for you. Our service technicians will work closely with you to evaluate your centipede and millipede problem, completing an in-depth inspection before tailoring treatment solutions to your property’s specific needs. With our help, your centipede and millipede problems will be taken care of in no time at all.

To prevent centipede and millipede problems in the future, you can follow these easy pest-deterring tips:

• Seal up cracks around windows and doors to keep these pests out.
• Fix leaks and drainage issues around your property that lead to pools of excess water.
• Invest in a dehumidifier for indoor areas to keep moist, humid conditions at bay.
• Keep outdoor areas clear of long grasses and leaf litter to make your property less hospitable to these pests.
• Address infestations of pest prey on your property that may be attracting hungry centipedes.

Don’t forget to contact EcoGuard Pest Control at the first signs of centipede or millipede problems on your property.