What are Millipedes?
Millipedes are a type of insect that we describe as occasional invaders. They spend most of their lives outside but sometimes move indoors while searching for more favorable living conditions. Millipedes are scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter. Outdoors, their feeding habits are eco-beneficial and help to break down decaying matter. Despite having many legs, millipedes are slow-moving insects that have rigid worm-like bodies. Their body is brown to black, and some species having orange or mottled patterns. They have two pairs of legs per body segment, and depending on their exact size, they usually have between 30 and 90 legs.
What kinds of millipedes are there?
North American Millipede
(Narceus americanus)This is a large, dark-colored millipede that is common in the eastern United States.
Bristly Millipede
(Polydesmida)These millipedes have long, bristly hairs and are often found in wooded areas.
Flat-Backed Millipede
(Polydesmida)These millipedes are also found in wooded areas and have a flat back that makes them look somewhat like a centipede.
Yellow-Banded Millipede
(Anadenobolus monilicornis) This species has a distinctive yellow band around its body and is found in the southeastern United States.
What you should know about millipedes
While millipedes may seem harmless, they can actually be quite a nuisance and pose a threat to your home and health.
One of the biggest problems with millipedes is their tendency to invade homes in large numbers. During periods of heavy rain or high humidity, millipedes will seek shelter in homes, and once inside, they can be difficult to remove. These pests often hide in dark, damp places such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms, making them hard to locate and eliminate.
Another issue with millipedes is that they can cause damage to your home. While they don't bite or sting, they can still be harmful to your property. Millipedes feed on decaying plant matter, and when they find their way into your home, they will start to consume any organic material they can find. This can include things like wood, paper, and fabric, which can weaken the structure of your home and cause damage over time.
In addition to being a nuisance and causing damage to your home, millipedes can also pose a threat to your health. When disturbed or threatened, millipedes will release a foul-smelling liquid that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. This liquid can also stain carpets and other fabrics, making it difficult to remove.
Finally, it's important to note that millipedes can attract other pests to your home. Since they feed on decaying plant matter, they can attract other insects and arthropods that are looking for a food source. This can lead to infestations of other pests, which can be even harder to eliminate than millipedes.
In conclusion, while millipedes may seem harmless at first glance, they can actually be quite a nuisance and pose a threat to your home and health. If you are experiencing a millipede infestation, it's important to contact a professional pest control company to help eliminate the problem and prevent future infestations.
