What Attracts Millipedes To East Texas Homes?
May 8, 2019
The difference between centipedes and millipedes can be confusing. If you have millipedes you’ll notice they have elongated, round bodies that are usually 1 to 2 inches in length. Millipedes are black or brown in color. They’re easily identified by their many legs that move in a wave-like motion as they walk. Centipedes and millipedes are both arthropods. Their bodies consist of many segments. The difference between the two is that centipedes have one pair of legs per segment, while millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment. Millipedes also move a lot slower than centipedes.
When outside, Millipedes live in damp, dark places such as under rocks or logs. They can also be found in gardens and around other vegetation since their diet consists of mostly plants. It’s common for them to enter a home if they find an opening along your foundation, whether it be through windows, cracks, or vents. If you have plant pots inside or store bags of soil inside, millipedes will probably find it. They often dwell in the soil but will be comfortable in any moist, dark location. Any room of the house is susceptible to millipedes. However, since they prefer moisture, they’re more likely to be found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, crawl spaces, and other similar rooms.
While they don’t bite or sting, millipedes have another form of defense. If they feel threatened they will release a foul-smelling liquid. This liquid may cause skin irritation to humans if not washed off right away. There are no serious threats posed by millipedes to humans, but they do come in large numbers. When they invade, you’ll see plenty of curled up millipedes lying around on the floor, in boxes, in drawers, etc. Vacuuming them up will help reduce the number of them in your home, but if their population has grown they can be hard to control. To prevent millipedes in your yard, avoid throwing organic matter outside to decompose.
If you are struggling with a millipede infestation, Innovative Pest Services can provide the treatment needed to protect your home. With our year-round pest control plan, you can ensure that your home will remain pest-free and worry-free. Don’t let pests overtake your home. We will not only inspect your property to determine possible entry points, but we’ll also treat the perimeter of your East Texas home to prevent millipedes (and other pests) from entering. Don’t wait. Let Innovative Pest Services take care of the infestations for you!