When the sun goes down, not only do owls, bats, and raccoons come out to mingle, but centipedes and millipedes also join them. As nocturnal pests, these creatures like to make their homes in moist, dark areas such as underneath landscaping rocks, logs, and piles of leaves. While they may look like insects, they are actually closer in relation to lobsters, shrimp, and crayfish. The name centipede means “one hundred legs” while millipede indicates “one thousand legs”, but in actuality, a millipede can have anywhere from 30 to 400 legs.

What You Should Know About Centipedes in Georgia 

Centipedes vary in length from 1/8 to 6 inches long. These pests have one set of long, slender legs for each body segment. The number of legs they have depends on their species, but typically ranges from 75 to 177 legs. Centipedes will eat various insects, including spiders from time to time, as well as plant matter. Even though a centipede will eat other bugs in your yard, they are mainly considered a pest. While they won’t damage your home or put your health at risk, they may bite you if they feel you are a threat to them; it will probably remind you of a bee or wasp sting.

What You Should Know About Millipedes in Georgia 

Millipedes look more like worms or shiny caterpillars than centipedes do. They are long and round, and can grow anywhere from 1/4 to 4  1/2 inches in length. If you spot a millipede, it will be black or dark brown, though they sometimes have orange or red markings. Millipedes feature two sets of short legs for each body segment. While these pests have many legs, they’re not very quick on their feet. This type of pest scavenges for its food by feeding on dead insects and decaying plants.

If you see a millipede, it will probably be outside on your property hiding in a moist, dark place. They like to hide under piles of leaves, mulch, landscaping bark, and logs. When Georgia experiences heavy rains, millipedes will move inside your home and other structures on your property. Like moths, this kind of pest is attracted to light. You may come across a large number of them on your porch, deck, or patio.

Millipedes will not sting or bite you, but some species can emit an unpleasant odor when disturbed. If you come into contact with this odorous substance, it may cause you to experience skin irritation or develop small blisters. This substance can also be toxic to small pets.

How to Spot a Centipede or Millipede Infestation in Georgia

Whether you have a centipede or millipede infestation, these pests won’t leave many signs of their presence. It can be tough to know if they’ve invaded your space since they’re only out at night. If you start spotting centipedes or millipedes inside your home, this could be a sign you probably have more, which means that an infestation is likely. Homes with other kinds of pest infestations may also have a centipede or millipede infestation because these creatures feed on insects like silverfish and cockroaches.

Where to Look for Centipede or Millipede Entry Points 

To prevent a centipede or millipede infestation, check the interior and exterior of your home for holes or cracks that would allow them to get inside. Because these pests are able to climb walls, all it takes for them to get into your home is a tiny foundation crack located above ground level. If you come across any during your inspection, be sure to seal them.

Keep your home’s crawl space, basement, and attic properly ventilated to remove excess moisture. Also, inspect your home’s window and door screens for rips or holes. Replace any screens that are damaged, and don’t forget to search the rest of your property for centipede and millipede hiding spots. They like to hang out under decaying leaves and grass as well as beneath rotting wood. Getting rid of these things also removes potential food sources.

When to Contact a Pest Control Professional 

A centipede or millipede infestation involves a large number of bugs, which means if they invade your home or business, you’ll want to get rid of them fast. The easiest, most effective way to do this is to let the professionals handle things. The expert pest control technicians at Active Pest Control Pest Control use a combination of exclusion techniques, pest removal, and insecticide applications to eliminate pests from your home or business.

First, our technicians will conduct a full inspection of your property. They will then develop a customized treatment plan for your centipede or millipede infestation. With these kinds of pests, chemicals are generally only used for temporary control – instead, we will do our best to remove the conditions that are drawing them to your property in the first place.

Rely on the Experts at Active Pest Control for Centipede and Millipede Control in Georgia

Centipedes and millipedes love Georgia for its moist climate. As a resident, you may experience this kind of infestation, which means that it’s a good idea to know what to look for and how to respond. Instead of attempting to tackle an infestation by yourself, your best bet is to contact a trusted pest removal company like Active Pest Control. Our pest professionals will be more than happy to get rid of these pests for you.

Don’t live with an infestation for another day – contact Active Pest Control today for your free centipede and millipede inspection.