Centipedes and Millipedes
NuisanceWhat it is
Moisture-loving arthropods with many legs. Centipedes are fast predators with one pair of legs per body segment, while millipedes are slower decomposers with two pairs per most segments and often wander indoors after heavy rain.
How to recognize it
Many-legged, worm-like arthropods. House centipedes are fast with long legs, while millipedes coil when touched.
Where you will find it
Damp basements, bathrooms, crawlspaces, mulch, and leaf litter.
Why it matters
Centipedes can bite but are rarely harmful. Both mostly point to damp conditions and other insects as prey.
What to do
- Reduce moisture: wipe up standing water, report leaks, and run bathroom fans.
- Reduce clutter, cardboard, and stored paper in basements and storage areas.
- Note where you see them and photograph them to help identification.
- Contact a licensed pest professional if they keep appearing, since the moisture or entry source needs to be found.
When to call a professional
- They appear indoors repeatedly.
- You find damp or moldy areas.
- You are not sure what you are seeing.
Related pests
Crickets
Jumping insects known for chirping, especially males. Field and house crickets may enter structures and can damage fabrics, paper, stored goods, or become a noise nuisance.
Read more →Earwigs
Elongated insects with forceps-like pincers at the rear of the abdomen. They prefer damp, protected outdoor habitats and may wander indoors, especially during hot, dry, or very wet weather.
Read more →Ground Beetles
Usually dark, fast-running beetles that live at soil level and prey on other insects. They are generally beneficial outdoors but may wander indoors accidentally, especially around doors, garages, and basements.
Read more →Pill Bugs
Small crustaceans also called roly-polies that live in moist areas under mulch, stones, logs, and debris. They do not bite or damage structures and usually die quickly indoors because of low moisture.
Read more →This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Pests vary by region and situation, and an on-site inspection is the reliable way to know what you have.