Some pests are more common than others, like cockroaches, rodents, and spiders. However, centipedes are less common and are only occasional invaders. Many people often confuse centipedes for millipedes.
Below you can learn more about how to tell the difference between these two pests and what problems centipedes can cause on your Fort Worth property.
Do The Centipedes In Fort Worth Have 100 Legs?
This is the question everyone has about centipedes, do they have 100 legs? The short answer is that some do, but not all of them. This insect can have between 15 to 173 body segments with one pair of legs per segment. This is also one of the differences between centipedes and millipedes; millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment.
Other ways that you can tell the differences between centipedes and millipedes are:
- Centipedes have a long flat body with a hard exoskeleton, while millipedes have a round worm-like body.
- Centipedes have long antennae, and millipedes have short ones.
As you will learn below, centipedes are quick predators compared to millipedes which are slow scavengers that feed on decaying plant matter.
Are The Centipedes In Fort Worth Poisonous?
For the most part, centipedes are more of a nuisance than a problem for most homeowners. A centipede bite can be painful but usually only happens if they feel threatened. And although they are venomous, unless you are an insect or other pest prey, a centipede bite won’t hurt you.
However, some people can be allergic to this pest’s venom and might experience an allergic reaction. It is always best to avoid touching centipedes, but you should monitor your symptoms if you contact one or experience a bite.
Will Centipedes In Fort Worth Damage My Plants?
If you see that your plants are damaged, and there are centipedes on them, the natural conclusion is that they caused the damage. But this isn’t the case! Centipedes are beneficial to plants and gardens because they feed on the pests that cause damage.
Although this may be the case, you probably still want to get rid of centipedes on your Fort Worth property. The best way to do this is with professional pest control.
How Do I Get Rid Of Centipedes On My Fort Worth Property?
To get rid of centipedes on your Fort Worth property, you should contact the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite. Centipede issues are covered under our ongoing residential services with our knowledgeable and experienced technicians.
Between your scheduled pest control visits, you can utilize the following tips to help reduce moisture on your property. This is important because centipedes and other pests are attracted to moisture:
- Keep the gutters clear.
- Cut back shrubbery and keep it from overgrowing.
- Remove any plants or weeds near your home’s foundation and create a barrier using crushed rocks.
- Remove any decaying wood and other organic debris like leaves and grass clippings.
- Repair any leaks and remove water-damaged wood.
- Use dehumidifiers, especially in areas like bathrooms and the kitchen.
Our technicians will help locate entry points, but regular inspections of your home’s foundation will help to ensure there are no cracks pests can squeeze through. You should also install vent covers and door sweeps around your home.
Give us a call at All-Safe Pest & Termite for more tips and to learn how you can get started with the services you need to keep centipedes and other pests out of your home.