Centipedes are a peculiar looking insect with a long worm-like body, several pairs of legs, and two antennae extending from their heads. They have two legs for each segment of their frame, and are born normally with only four legs. Their colors vary greatly by region, varying from bright reds and browns to almost transparent shades of white and yellow. As they age and go through molting they gain additional sets of legs and body segments, but always at an odd pair (for example, they may have 11 or 13 segments but never 10 or 12 segments). Although it would seem such an insect would not be very agile, they are extremely quick and can move with surprising grace.
Several species of centipede also possess a set of venomous fangs that develop from their first pair of legs. It delivers a numbing toxin that debilitates their victim and makes consuming their prey much more efficient. Although most centipedes are not considered a lethal threat to humans, a bite can cause mild to severe Household Pesticides List pain followed by swelling and redness around the infected area. Even without medical care the discomfort normally fades after six to twenty-four hours; however, those with allergies to bee stings are likely to have serious reactions and should seek medical treatment immediately to avoid further complications.
The centipede is a nocturnal animal and is rarely seen during daylight hours. This insect prefers warm environments and requires ample moisture to protect its skin. It can usually be located within rotten wood, mulch, compost piles, or moist leaves. Their average lifespan is around six years, and on average grow to three to six inches in length. Many within this species have no eyes, and the ones who do can only tell darkness from light with their poor vision. Nonetheless, this species is considered Terminix Acquires Insight Pest Solutions a predator and relies on its antennas to locate food. Their diet is mainly composed of worms and other small insects that can be found close to their lairs. Females that have been fertilized by a male spermatophore can produce between 10-50 eggs at a time, and within many centipede species it takes several years before newborns reach adulthood. Because of their slow growth cycle, poor eyesight, and number of other species that consume them the centipede is rarely seen in large numbers.
There are some breeds of centipede that have adapted to indoor life, with the most prevalent in the United States being the house centipede. They will normally seek out damp areas within a home, and usually are found within a basement or bathroom with plenty of dark corners to hide in. Centipedes are most often spotted shooting across the floor during evening hours but they are also capable climbers that have no problem traveling up a wall or even across a ceiling. Since this species requires humidity to survive, a simple solution to expel this species from your home is to properly ventilate areas they live in to remove excess moisture. Several pesticides are also available that can either be applied as a type of barrier or sprayed directly on their breeding ground; only severe infestations generally will require the services of a professional.
Home