House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are arthropods frequently encountered in homes. These creatures possess a distinctive appearance, characterized by a yellowish-grey body, often marked with three dark stripes running lengthwise. They have up to 15 pairs of elongated legs that increase in length towards the rear, giving them a deceptively larger appearance. Their legs allow them to move with surprising speed across floors, walls, and ceilings. Long antennae serve as important sensory organs for navigation and prey detection.
The Predatory Nature of House Centipedes
House centipedes are active predators, making them a form of natural pest control within homes. They feed on a wide array of common household pests, including silverfish, cockroaches, termites, and various types of spiders.
They also prey on moths, flies, ants, crickets, earwigs, and small arachnids. They are known to consume bed bugs, though their presence alone is not sufficient to resolve a severe infestation. House centipedes use their speed and venomous fangs to immobilize prey, reducing insect populations.
Addressing Common Concerns
Despite their beneficial role, house centipedes often cause alarm due to their appearance and rapid movements. They can reach speeds of up to 0.4 meters per second (1.3 feet per second), which contributes to their startling effect when encountered.
A common concern is whether house centipedes are dangerous to humans. While they possess venom, it is primarily used to subdue insect prey and is not harmful to people. Bites are rare, occurring only if a centipede feels threatened, is accidentally handled, or becomes trapped against skin. If a bite does occur, symptoms are mild, such as localized pain and slight swelling, often comparable to a bee sting. House centipedes do not carry or transmit diseases.
Managing Their Presence in Your Home
Managing the presence of house centipedes in a home can involve either tolerating their beneficial role or discouraging their entry. Since house centipedes are attracted to areas with other pests, controlling the population of their food sources is an effective strategy to reduce their numbers.
To discourage their presence, focus on reducing moisture, as they prefer damp, humid environments. Using dehumidifiers in basements and bathrooms, repairing leaks, and ensuring adequate ventilation can make your home less appealing to them. Sealing cracks and crevices in foundations, walls, and around windows and doors can also prevent their entry. Removing clutter both indoors and directly around the exterior of your home can eliminate hiding spots.