Centipedes are fast-moving, elongated arthropods with a single pair of legs per body segment, known for their predatory nature. Often found in moist environments where they hunt smaller insects, centipedes are beneficial to the ecosystem as natural pest controllers. However, their presence inside homes can be alarming due to their creepy appearance and potential to deliver a painful, though rarely dangerous, bite when handled or threatened.
Why Are Centipedes a Problem?
Bites
While not common, centipedes can bite in self-defense. These bites can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in some people, similar to a bee sting.
Unsettling Presence
Due to their speed and startling appearance, centipedes can cause discomfort and fear, particularly when they appear suddenly in living spaces.
Indoor Infestation
Their presence indoors often indicates an excess of moisture and other pests, which they prey upon. Large numbers can suggest underlying issues that need addressing.
Nocturnal Activity
Centipedes are mostly active at night, which can lead to unsettling encounters during evening hours when they are more likely to be seen.
Signs of Centipede Infestation
Sightings of Centipedes
Regular sightings, especially in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and near drains, can indicate an infestation.
Egg Nests
Female centipedes lay their eggs in damp soil or organic debris. Finding these nests inside can be a sign of infestation.
Moisture Issues
Persistent moisture problems in the home can attract centipedes. Signs of moisture, such as peeling paint, mold growth, or musty smells, can also indicate potential centipede activity.
Other Pest Populations
An increase in other small pest populations can attract centipedes into your home as they follow their food sources.
Centipede FAQ’s
What attracts centipedes into my home?
Centipedes enter homes primarily in search of food and moisture. High humidity levels, leaks, and the presence of other insects for food can attract them indoors.
How can I prevent centipedes from entering my house?
Reducing humidity with dehumidifiers, repairing leaks, sealing cracks and crevices, and eliminating clutter that can harbor pests are effective ways to prevent centipedes. Ensuring basements, crawl spaces, and attics are well-ventilated and dry also discourages their presence.
Are centipedes dangerous?
Centipedes can bite, but their venom is generally not harmful to humans except for a temporary, localized pain. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.
What is the best way to get rid of centipedes?
Addressing the factors that attract centipedes, such as moisture and other pests, is key. For persistent problems, chemical treatments targeted at centipede habitats can be effective. Consulting with a pest control professional can provide tailored solutions to manage and eliminate centipedes from your home.
Don’t Let Centipedes Take Over Your Home!
If you suspect you have a centipede problem, don’t wait. Contact Pest Pro for a professional inspection and effective treatment. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge and tools to eliminate bed bugs and restore your peace of mind.
Why Pest Pros?
- We Get the Job Done Right: Pests hide in the toughest spots. With over 40 years of combined experience, we know where to look and how to tackle the problem.
- Safety & Expertise: We use only high-quality, EPA-approved products and invest in ongoing training for our technicians. Your family’s safety is our priority.
- Guaranteed Results: Our proven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach eliminates pests and prevents them from returning. If they do, we’ll come back at no additional cost.
If the Pests Come Back, We Come Back
Pest Control Treatment Includes
In Depth Inspection
Our pest specialist will perform a in-depth inspection of your home; we are looking for conducive conditions that pest thrive in. You tech might fight signs of rodent activity, active ant trails, or moisture-related issues.
Preventive Pest Service
Your pest service program will include monitoring stations for pest activity and target applications for pest found. Slow release granular application around your home and a protective spray barrier to stop pest from moving in.
What Pests Want
Yes, we give pests what they want: Food! Our pest specialist carry a variety of food that pests cannot resist, and they know how to carefully apply the right solutions in common nesting spots for effective elimination.
Related Services
Cricket Control
Crickets are common insects that are known for their distinctive chirping sounds, which males …
Millipede Control
Millipedes are elongated arthropods with two pairs of legs per body segment, distinguishing them …
Earwig Control
Earwigs are small, slender insects recognized by their distinctive pincers on their abdomen, which …
Stink Bug Control
Stink bugs, known for their distinctive shield-like shape and the unpleasant odor they emit when …
Testimonials
“Jason came out to provide a termite estimate. Due to his confidence, knowledge, and professionalism I hired him on the spot. About an hour later he had us set up to begin exterminating our termites with monitoring stations. I went with Pest Pros not because they offered the lowest cost estimate, but because of Jason.”
– Krystal Scott-Rhodes
Google Review
“These guys are awesome! On time, personable, friendly, honest and knowledgeable. I am so glad I called a local business like Pest Pros that I know will not try to take advantage of me. Would highly recommend Jason and this business! Thanks guys!”
– Kristen Miller
Google Review
“I had an awesome experience with Pest Pros and Hayden! He was professional and very thorough. I think he did an awesome job addressing our ant concerns and seemed very knowledgeable. I had a bunch of questions and he took the time to answer all of them. Thank you!”
– Katie
Google Review
