Millipedes
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- Brownish-black or mottled with shades of orange, red, or brown
- Cylindrical in shape or slightly flattened
- Most have two pairs of legs per body segment, except for the first three segments which have only one pair of legs
- Antennae are short, usually seven-segmented, and the head is rounded with no poison jaws
- Their short legs ripple in waves as they glide over a surface
- Millipedes often curl up into a tight "C" shape and remain motionless when touched
- Size: Range from 0.08 to 14 inches in length
Behavior and Habitat of Millipedes
Millipedes feed on living and decomposing vegetation and occasionally on dead snails, earthworms, and insects. Slight feeding injury can occur on soft-stemmed plants, in gardens, and in greenhouses. They cannot tolerate water-saturated soil, which forces them to the surface and higher ground. Likewise, dry, drought conditions can stimulate migration. Millipedes are attracted to dark, cool, and moist environments. They are nocturnal and often leave their natural habitats at night to crawl about over sidewalks, patios, and foundations. At certain times of the year, especially during fall, they may migrate into buildings in great numbers. Fall movement into structures appears to be accidental, occurring in the course of searching for humid sites (as a winter habitat). Migration into buildings is also common during spring and summer, in conjunction with periods of excessively wet or dry weather.
Signs of Infestation of Millipedes
Millipedes are not poisonous but many species have glands capable of producing irritating fluids which may produce allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to insects or insect toxins. A few millipede species are capable of squirting these fluids over a distance of several inches. Persons handling millipedes will notice a lingering odor on their hands and the fluid can be dangerous to the eyes. It is not advisable to handle millipedes but when one has been held, hands should be washed with soap and water until the odor is completely gone.
Tips for Prevention of Millipedes
Reduce moisture in and around your home using a dehumidifier. Keep lawns mowed so that grass does not retain moisture and water lawns in the early morning to allow grass to dry during the day. Remove leaf piles and grass clippings. Store firewood off of the ground.
Millipede Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
What Silverfish Are, Where They Come From, & How to Get Rid of Them
Jan 06, 2022—Bug Database, West Palm Beach, Pest Control, Tips & Control Advice
If you have seen small silver insects that exhibit almost fish-like movement around your home, you may be wondering how to get rid of silverfish. Most of us remember the first time we saw these distinctive creepy crawlies scurrying around. When these prehistoric-looking insects show up in your...
Read More ›
Rodent Exclusion: How to Find Rat & Mice Entry Points
Dec 23, 2021—Rodents, Tips & Control Advice, Rodents
If you see rats or mice in your home, you will want to use a professional pest control company to trap the interior, bait the exterior, and complete a rodent exclusion on your home to prevent rodent entry as soon as possible. The telltale signs of a rodent infestation can send shivers down your...
Read More ›
How to Get Rid of Ghost Ants (Little White Ants in Florida)
Dec 08, 2021—Bug Database, Ants, Pest Control
Want to know how to get rid of ghost ants in South Florida? If you have little white ants or clear ants crawling around your kitchen, you probably have ghost ants. These adaptable white ants in Florida are a common household invader that homeowners struggle to eliminate on their own. With the right...
Read More ›
