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
Termites 101: A South Florida Homeowners Guide
Jun 07, 2021—Florida Termites
South Florida is an attractive place to call home. It's no wonder termites also love West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Pierce and other South Florida neighborhoods. In fact, termites are predicted to damage over 50% of South Florida structures by 2040, according to...
Read More ›
Drywood vs Subterranean Termites
May 03, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Identification & Control
Here at Hulett Environmental Services, we receive many questions regarding the different species of termites and questions about the various effective treatment methods for eradicating infestations, including "Do you tent for subterranean termites?", along with "Does tenting kill subterranean...
Read More ›
What to Know about Termite Swarming Season
Apr 27, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Termites
As the warmer and rainy months approach, South Floridians must be aware that termite swarming season is also upon us, putting homes and businesses at increased risk of becoming infested. In fact, South Florida is home to many of the cities known for having some of the most termite infestations...
Read More ›
