Millipedes

What do millipedes look like?

Millipedes are long, cylindrical bugs with segmented bodies, each segment having two legs. These legs are straight and underneath the body, moving harmoniously to propel the millipede forward. Most species in Phoenix measure 1 to 2 inches in length and are dark brown or black. When disturbed, these bugs curl into a ball to protect themselves; this distinct behavior pattern will help you easily distinguish them from centipedes, another common, multi-legged bug in Arizona.

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What do millipedes eat?

Millipedes are detritivores, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter. It is important to note that their preference is natural food sources. You are not likely to find them climbing into garbage receptacles for a meal—though they might, under the right circumstances. Outdoors, they feed on:

• Rotting leaves
• Dead plant matter
• Wood
• Mulch
• Fungi

Indoors, millipedes do not readily find suitable food sources for survival and don’t usually live long. They will survive if they feed on damp paper products or decaying natural materials.

What is the difference between a millipede and a centipede?

These two pests are commonly confused. This is likely because they are the only two pests with a significant number of legs. Fortunately, it is easy to tell these two arthropods apart.

Millipedes are slow-moving bugs with legs that stick straight down toward the ground. Their cylindrical bodies curl up into a moon shape when they are disturbed. They are nature’s sanitation engineers, cleaning up decaying material wherever they go.

Centipedes are faster-moving bugs with long, thin bodies and legs that shoot out to the sides. Small centipedes have a comb-like appearance. Large centipedes have small legs and a frightening appearance overall. Centipedes are carnivores that hunt and consume prey, but the smaller centipedes are not known to bite (sting) humans.

Millipedes are beneficial because they clean up detritus, and centipedes are helpful when they prey on other insects.

Are millipedes harmful?

No. Millipedes present no significant threat to humans or pets. They do not have venom and do not sting or bite. However, some millipede species release a defensive fluid that can cause skin or eye irritation. They are nuisance pests that don’t belong in the house. 

Why are millipedes in my house?

Millipedes eat detritus in nature and have difficulty finding food indoors, so why do they enter Phoenix area homes? Here are a few factors that can lead to an indoor millipede problem:

• Outdoor attractants can bring these bugs close and provide what they need for population growth. Many millipedes near exterior walls and accessible entry points can lead to accidental indoor infestations.
• Dry days can send millipedes indoors to find moisture and humidity. They may appear in large numbers in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms.
• Hot days can send millipedes indoors in search of shade and cooler temperatures.

They get in mainly by finding a way inside. You can keep them out by sealing entry points and getting routine pest control treatments for your exterior.

Are millipedes a sign of a larger moisture problem in my home?

Often, the answer to this question is yes. Millipede infestations and indoor moisture problems are linked, particularly if moist paper products provide a food source. Consider these conditions:

• Poor drainage around your foundation or in your crawl space
• Leaky pipes, faucets, or appliances in your home
• High humidity in your bathroom or storage rooms
• Damp paper products in storage

Addressing moisture problems not only helps prevent millipede infestations but also reduces the likelihood of attracting other pests.

How do I eliminate millipedes in my home?

If millipedes have entered your home, contact Termio Pest Control for the best pest control in the Phoenix area! 

How do millipedes get into homes?

Millipedes scale walls and walk across ceilings. They can find tiny cracks in places that are hard to see. Here are some common entry points:

• Gaps along the foundation
• Gaps in old weatherproofing
• Gaps around doors
• Structural gaps
• Utility and light fixture gaps and holes
• Unprotected vents or weep holes

Homeowners may accidentally carry them indoors as well. 

Do millipedes damage plants or property?

Only when populations rise do they turn to eat living plants. As for property damage, they are not known to damage homes or belongings. It is important to keep in mind that their fecal matter can cause stains.

How can I prevent millipedes from entering my home?

Keep millipedes out of your home by addressing attractants and potential entry points. Here are a few quick and easy tips:

• Address moisture issues near your home.
• Remove organic clutter near your home.
• Replace old weatherproofing.
• Use expanding foam to fill in structural cavities or gaps.
• Repair light fixtures.
• Use caulking material to seal gaps around door and window frames.
• Address high humidity in your home.
• Store paper products in sealed containers.