|
|
 |
Household Insects
-
return to Household Insects -
Centipedes
-by Dennis M. Ferraro Extension Educator Douglas/Sarpy Extension
Unit
These small worm-like pests, with 15 pairs of legs, are not true
insects. Their bodies are about one inch long, with legs extending
out half an inch or more. House centipedes are grayish-tan in color,
with three darker stripes down the body. They legs are banded in
dark brown or tan. They have two very long antennae.
These pests are common outdoors, and migrate indoors to damp areas.
They are commonly found in basements and bathrooms. They are usually
seen on walls, where they remain motionless for long periods of
time.
House centipedes cause no harm to structures or houseplants. They
have two small, weak jaws which can barely penetrate human skin.
Occasionally they will bite someone. On sensitive people, this may
cause an allergic reaction. These pests feed on insects and spiders.
Because of this, many people consider them beneficial. Centipedes
ordinarily cause no problem other than being unsightly, so control
is not usually necessary. If you do want to control them,
ventilation and dryness discourage them from moving indoors.
Spraying around the perimeter of the house with a general use
insecticide will keep most of them from moving indoors.
|
