If you’ve spotted a creepy-crawly with dozens (or even hundreds!) of tiny legs scurrying across your floor, it’s natural to cringe and wonder what exactly has invaded your space. Was it a centipede or a millipede?
These two arthropods often get confused, but they couldn’t be more different—both in how they look and how they behave. Knowing which pest has moved in can make all the difference when deciding how to protect your home or business.
So what exactly is the difference between centipedes and millipedes?
Let’s break down the key differences between centipedes and millipedes—from their physical traits and behavior to whether they pose a threat to your home or business.
And if the idea of sharing your space with either of these multi-legged guests makes you shudder, don’t worry.
We’ll also explain how we at Orange Pest Control can help you tackle these pests and keep your property critter-free.
Difference Between Centipedes and Millipedes: Telling Them Apart
First things first—how can you tell whether the little invader is a centipede or a millipede? Their distinct appearances are the first dead giveaway.
Appearance
Centipedes are faster and more menacing in appearance. They have long, flat bodies with one pair of legs per body segment (a telltale trait) and move quickly when disturbed.
Most centipedes range in color from brown to yellowish, and their legs often seem to extend outward in a way that gives them a more intimidating look.
But their most notable feature? Powerful pincers that they use to subdue their prey.
Millipedes, on the other hand, are plumper and slower. Their rounded bodies differentiate them from centipedes, and they sport two pairs of legs per body segment, making their movement appear smoother and more graceful—if a millipede could ever be called graceful! They’re typically dark brown or black, with some sporting specks or stripes.
Size
Centipedes tend to look more aggressive due to their long legs, so you may perceive them as larger than they really are. Their length varies depending on the species, but most common house centipedes in Florida grow to about one inch, with their legs making them seem larger.
Millipedes, however, tend to grow longer overall. Some species common to Cocoa, FL, can measure up to four inches in length, making them more noticeable but far less threatening in terms of speed.
Behavior and Habitat Preferences
Now that you’ve identified the pest, it’s time to figure out what it wants and why it chose your space.
Centipedes
Centipedes are predators. They feed on insects like silverfish, ants, termites, and flies, which makes them beneficial in the natural ecosystem.
Their fangs—equipped with venom—might make them seem scary, but they’re harmless to humans in most cases. However, their bites can cause mild pain or irritation, similar to a bee sting.
Centipedes favor dark, damp environments. You’ll often find them in basements, bathrooms, or under piles of leaves. They’re nocturnal, which means you’ll catch most of their activity during nighttime hours.
Millipedes
Unlike centipedes, millipedes aren’t hunters. They’re scavengers and decomposers, meaning they feed on decaying plant material, rotting wood, and fungus—an important role in the greater ecosystem. They typically avoid human contact altogether and curl into a tight coil when they feel threatened.
Millipedes also thrive in moisture-heavy environments. Outside, they’re frequently spotted under rocks, within mulch or leaf litter, or in garden beds. Inside, they’ll make their way to spaces with high humidity—like kitchens, basements, or utility rooms—especially during heavy rain or droughts.
Are Centipedes and Millipedes Dangerous?
Centipedes often get a bad reputation because of their venom and speed, but they pose limited threats to humans. Their bites, while rare, can leave minor irritation and swelling, particularly for those with sensitive skin or allergies. For pets, centipede encounters can also be uncomfortable, so keeping your furry friends away from these arthropods is a good idea.
Millipedes, on the other hand, are far less worrisome. They might secrete a defensive liquid when stressed, which can cause mild skin irritation for humans, but they don’t bite or harm pets. Ultimately, they’re more of a nuisance than a danger, especially when they wander into homes during unfavorable environmental conditions.
While neither pest poses significant risks, having a full-blown infestation of either isn’t ideal for homeowners or business owners. The sight of these critters can cause unease and disrupt daily life, making effective pest control an important step.
Managing Infestations with Orange Pest Control
Whether you’re dealing with fast-moving centipedes or slow-crawling millipedes, we’ve got you covered at Orange Pest Control. Based in Brevard County, FL, we specialize in maintaining pest-free homes and businesses in Cocoa and beyond.
Step 1: Inspection
We start with a thorough inspection of your property to identify the type of pest you’re dealing with, as well as the specific entry points and hiding spots. Understanding why centipedes or millipedes are taking over helps us develop a tailored solution for your property.
Step 2: Treatment
Our team uses environmentally friendly and effective methods to remove the infestation and prevent future ones. For centipedes, this might mean targeting the insects they’re preying on, while millipede control focuses on addressing moisture problems.
Step 3: Prevention
Effective pest control doesn’t end with treatment. We work with you to implement long-term prevention strategies. From sealing cracks to reducing moisture levels, our team helps you keep these crawlers out for good.
Step 4: Ongoing Support
Living in Florida means dealing with a variety of pests year-round. That’s why we offer regular maintenance services to ensure your home or business remains pest-free, no matter the season.
Say Goodbye to Unwelcome Guests
Now that you know the difference between centipedes and millipedes, here’s something else you should know: you don’t need to deal with centipedes and millipedes invading your space.
Whether they’re hiding under your cabinets or crawling across your porch, our team at Orange Pest Control is here to help. With our expertise, we’ll keep your home or business free from these pests, letting you focus on what truly matters.
Call us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward reclaiming your space. Together, we’ll make sure centipedes and millipedes stay exactly where they belong—outside.