If centipedes continue appearing frequently despite these measures, a qualified pest-control professional can help identify entry points and underlying moisture or pest problems.
House Centipede or Something Else? How to Tell
Not every many-legged creature found in a basement is a house centipede. Other centipedes, millipedes, and assorted arthropods may look similar at first glance.
Here are a few useful differences:
House centipedes: Usually have very long, delicate legs, a flattened body, prominent antennae, and rapid movements.
Millipedes: Generally have more cylindrical bodies, shorter legs, and slower movements. Many curl into a coil when disturbed.
Other centipedes: Can have shorter legs, more robust bodies, or different colors and patterns depending on the species.
Avoid touching an unidentified arthropod to examine it more closely. If you want to identify it, take a photograph from a safe distance and compare its features with reliable identification resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do house centipedes mean my home is dirty?
