Centipedes are elongated, with smooth, segmented bodies that have a pair of legs per segment. Centipedes most commonly are brown and reddish orange. Depending on the species, they range in size from five to 145 mm. They have small mouths and have big claw like edifices that contain a venom gland. Centipedes are carnivorous and search for food at night; they use their claws to paralyze their victims, such as worms, spiders and other small insects. They have large, well-developed eyes. If house centipedes become a problem, seek the advice and assistance of your pest management professional. Sticky traps can be used to monitor for their activity, but it’s advised to reduce moist conditions and upgrade exclusions for possible and actual points of entry. Also, eliminating other insects from your home is an effective control strategy because centipedes depend on insects and other arthropods for food.
