Worcester Pest Identification: Millipedes
Protect Your Home from Millipede Invasions Serving Central Massachusetts
Millipedes, often called “thousand-leggers,” can have 30–90+ pairs of legs, with some species having over 333 pairs. They vary in color and size, with the common garden millipede being brownish-black and about one inch long. Most are nocturnal scavengers, feeding on decaying plants and occasionally dead insects. Millipedes are found worldwide, with around 1,000 species in the U.S. They are attracted to dark, cool, moist environments rich in organic matter, such as compost piles, mulched beds, and rotting logs. Millipedes may release a toxic fluid when disturbed, and when threatened, they curl into a “C” shape and secrete a cyanide-like compound. They are often confused with centipedes, but centipedes have one pair of legs per segment and are faster. Millipedes usually pass the winter as adults and lay eggs in spring. While they can invade homes seeking moisture, they do not survive indoors for more than a few days. Prevention involves reducing moisture, using dehumidifiers, keeping lawns mowed, and removing leaf piles. Millipedes are arthropods, some of the oldest creatures on land, playing a crucial role as nature's recyclers. They feed on dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients into the soil. Millipedes prefer damp spaces and can be found around crawl spaces, damp basements, and sliding glass doors and windows. Although they may enter homes in spring and fall, they usually die within one to two days indoors. A hatchling millipede is born with three pairs of legs and can grow up to 200 legs as an adult. They curl into a spiral when threatened or dead. Millipedes and centipedes, though related, are different, with centipedes being carnivores and some species capable of biting.
Central Mass Trusts Us. See Why.
-
D"He explained everything that he was doing and effectively answered our questions."David Reno
-
J"He was professional and on time."James Ramsey
-
D"They provided me and my family with another visit on the rodent protection program that I have each year."Donna Pina
-
A"I'm pleased to say it is 2/28/26, and not a peep of a mouse has been heard all winter!"April L
-
K"Zack was professional and explained what he was doing and what I could expect."K M
-
K"Zack was professional and explained what he was doing and what I could expect."K M
-
J"I've used Fords Hometown Services a few times for carpenter Ants and I have always been impressed with the results. They are the Gold standard in pest control!"Josh R.
-
M"Ford Hometown Services helped me out when I really needed it."Mary Parker
-
M"Ford Hometown Services helped me out when I really needed it."Mary Parker
Stay Ahead of Pests
Explore tips, local advice, and real answers from our Worcester team to help you protect your home, family, and property all year long.
