Centipedes are present in California, contributing to the state’s diverse array of arthropods. These creatures inhabit various environments across California. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors helps in recognizing them as part of the local ecosystem. This article covers the types of centipedes found in the state, their preferred living spaces, and what to expect during an encounter.
Common California Centipedes
California is home to several centipede species, with the Common Desert Centipede (Scolopendra polymorpha) and the House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata) being among the most frequently encountered.
The Common Desert Centipede typically measures 4 to 7 inches in length. Its coloration is highly variable, giving rise to its species name “polymorpha,” meaning “many forms,” and it can range from brown, red, or orange to even blue hues, often with dark bands across its segments. This species features a darker head and lighter body segments.
The House Centipede is generally smaller, with a body length of about 1 to 1.5 inches, though its long legs can make it appear much larger, up to 3 to 4 inches in overall span. It has a yellowish-gray body with three distinct dark stripes running down its back, and its legs are often banded with white. Unlike many other centipedes, the House Centipede possesses well-developed faceted eyes. It also features remarkably long antennae and specialized hind legs that resemble antennae.
Where They Live
Centipedes in California occupy a wide range of habitats, adapting to diverse environmental conditions across the state.
The Common Desert Centipede thrives in arid environments such as dry grasslands, forests, and deserts. These centipedes primarily seek shelter during the day under rocks, logs, or in burrows. They are nocturnal predators.
House Centipedes are commonly found within human dwellings, but also reside outdoors in damp, cool places. Indoors, they prefer dark and moist areas like basements, cellars, closets, bathrooms, and garages. Outside, they can be located under leaf litter, in woodpiles, or within protected crevices of rocks and tree bark. Their presence often indicates other insect populations, which serve as their food.
Encountering Centipedes
If you encounter a centipede, particularly a larger species, understand their typical behavior. Centipedes are not aggressive towards humans but may bite if provoked or threatened, such as when accidentally handled or stepped on. A centipede bite is delivered through specialized front legs called forcipules, which inject venom. This bite typically results in two small puncture marks.
The immediate reaction to a centipede bite usually involves localized pain, swelling, and redness at the site, often described as similar to a bee sting. Symptoms such as itching, burning, and tenderness may also occur and generally subside within a few hours to several days. While most centipede bites in California are not medically serious for humans, larger species like the Common Desert Centipede can inflict a more painful bite. If a centipede is found indoors, observe it from a distance or carefully relocate it outdoors without direct handling.