Centipedes are present in Colorado, a natural component of the state’s diverse ecosystem. These arthropods, known for their elongated bodies and numerous legs, can be found in various environments. Understanding their presence and habits can help alleviate concerns.
Centipede Species in Colorado
Colorado is home to approximately twenty-five centipede species, with several commonly encountered. The house centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata) is often found indoors, characterized by its yellowish-gray body and three dark stripes. It has 15 pairs of long, slender legs, making its apparent length 3-4 inches, though its body is 1 to 1.5 inches long. House centipedes move rapidly, aided by their powerful legs and long antennae.
Another notable species is the common desert centipede (Scolopendra polymorpha), found in arid regions of Colorado. These centipedes exhibit varied coloration, often pale orangey-brown with black stripes, though some may display rare blue or purple hues. They are larger than house centipedes, reaching over 6 inches. Smaller species like the brown centipede (Lithobius forficatus), 0.7 to 1.1 inches long with a dark reddish-brown body, and various stone centipedes are also common, often found under outdoor debris.
Where Centipedes Reside
Centipedes in Colorado prefer damp, dark environments, sensitive to dry conditions. Outside, they commonly reside under rocks, logs, woodpiles, and leaf litter, or within compost piles where moisture and prey are abundant. They are nocturnal, most active during the night, hunting for insects and other small arthropods.
When outdoor conditions become too dry or when seeking prey, centipedes may venture indoors. They are found in areas of homes with higher humidity, such as basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, and damp closets. Their presence indoors often indicates a moisture issue, which attracts both the centipedes and their insect prey.
Centipede Bites and Your Safety
While centipedes possess venom, their bites are generally not medically serious for humans in Colorado. A centipede bite, which occurs when they use modified front legs (forcipules) to inject venom, typically results in localized pain, swelling, and redness. Symptoms usually subside within 48 hours.
If a bite occurs, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) for 10-minute intervals to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines can also manage discomfort.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, signs of infection (like red streaks or warmth) appear, or if an allergic reaction (such as wheezing or dizziness) develops. To deter centipedes from entering homes, reduce indoor moisture with dehumidifiers and seal cracks and crevices in foundations and around pipes.