centipede close upThere are over 8000 species of centipedes found throughout the world. The house centipede being the most common popping up in bathrooms and basements across Minnesota.

Centipedes name means 100 legs depending on the species they have as few as 15 pairs of legs or as many as 171 pairs. Centipedes will always have an odd number of leg pairs. Centipedes have one pair of legs per body segment. Centipedes can regenerate lost legs. Centipedes are also capable of living for several years, two to three years is common with some living as many as 5 years.

Treatment/Control

We use a barrier treatment with a residual insecticide a few feet up and a few feet out from the foundation. This prevents any new centipedes and other common crawling insects from entering your home. Indoors we target areas known to have higher moisture levels such as laundry areas, bathrooms, kitchens behind baseboards and other cracks and crevices.

Prevention

For prevention and long term control of centipedes remove all centipede harborage from around the home’s exterior. Eliminate other insects such as spiders that centipedes feed on. Remove all organic materials such as firewood, old moist mulch, compost, and piles of leaves or grass. Seal cracks in the foundation, around doors and windows. Check weather strips and thresholds on windows, doors and garages.

Indoors the use of glue board traps can aid in early detection and control of centipedes. Reduce clutter and keep basements, closets, restrooms, laundry areas, kitchens and other damp areas clean and dry.