Centipedes are common throughout California, inhabiting diverse environments across the state. These arthropods are characterized by their segmented bodies and numerous legs.
Common California Centipede Species
Several centipede species are commonly encountered in California. The house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata, is a common indoor resident, typically recognized by its yellowish-gray body with three dark stripes and exceptionally long, banded legs. Its body usually measures between 1 to 1.5 inches, but its 15 pairs of legs can make it appear significantly larger.
Another prominent species is the common desert centipede, Scolopendra polymorpha, also known as the tiger centipede or banded desert centipede. These larger centipedes can range from 4 to 7 inches in length. Their coloration is highly variable, with some having a darker brown, red, or orange head and lighter body segments, while others, particularly in Southern California, may display light blue bodies with indigo stripes and turquoise legs.
The giant desert centipede, Scolopendra heros, is North America’s largest, averaging around 6.5 inches but potentially reaching 8 inches or more. These centipedes often exhibit bright colors, sometimes with orange bodies and black heads and tails.
Habitat and Behavior
Centipedes typically seek out dark, damp environments, both indoors and outdoors. Outside, they are often found under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and in other protected crevices. They also inhabit dry grasslands, forests, and deserts, often taking residence under stones or creating burrows. House centipedes, however, can live their entire lives inside buildings, favoring areas like cellars, closets, bathrooms, garages, and drains due to their preference for moisture.
These creatures are nocturnal predators, hiding during the day and emerging at night to hunt. Centipedes primarily feed on a variety of insects and other arthropods, including cockroaches, flies, moths, crickets, silverfish, and small spiders. They use their specialized front legs, called forcipules, to inject venom and immobilize their prey before consumption. Their diet plays a role in controlling household pests, making them natural pest controllers in some environments.
Understanding Centipede Bites
Centipede “bites” are delivered by modified front legs equipped with venom glands. Most centipedes, especially smaller species like the house centipede, are not aggressive and rarely bite humans unless provoked. When a bite occurs, it typically results in localized pain, which can range from mild to severe, often compared to a bee sting.
Common symptoms of a centipede bite include redness, swelling, and a burning sensation at the site, which usually subside within 48 hours. For larger species, like the giant desert centipede, bites can cause intense pain, inflammation, and swelling, with some individuals experiencing vomiting, dizziness, headache, or an irregular heart rate.
First aid involves cleaning the bite area with soap and water and applying a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines can also help manage symptoms. Medical attention is generally not needed unless severe allergic reactions occur, such as difficulty breathing, widespread hives, facial swelling, or a rapid heart rate.
Prevention and Management
Preventing centipedes from entering homes involves addressing their preferred environments. Reducing moisture levels is a primary step, which can be achieved by repairing leaks, using dehumidifiers in basements, and ensuring proper ventilation in bathrooms and attics. Centipedes are attracted to clutter that provides hiding spots, so reducing piles of leaves, grass clippings, and firewood near the house can deter them. Inside, minimizing clutter in basements and crawl spaces also limits their options for shelter.
Sealing entry points around the home is another measure. This includes caulking cracks and gaps in foundations, exterior walls, around windows and doors, and utility entrances. Maintaining a clean living space by regularly vacuuming can also help remove centipedes and their prey. If a centipede is found indoors, it can be gently moved outside using a cup and paper. Addressing existing pest problems, such as infestations of insects that centipedes prey upon, can also reduce their presence in the home.