Bark & Stone Centipedes in Georgia
Health RiskHigh
Damage RiskLow
NuisanceLow
How to Identify Bark & Stone Centipedes
Bark and stone centipedes are recognized by their long, segmented bodies, numerous legs, and long antennae. They are commonly found in damp areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and other sheltered locations.
- Actual Size Approximately 25 to 38 mm in length
- Characteristics Bark and stone centipedes have long, flattened bodies with gray, brown, or yellowish coloring, dark markings, and many legs extending along the sides.
- Legs 30
- Antennae Yes
- Wings No
What Do Bark & Stone Centipedes Do?
These centipedes are most active after dark when they hunt for small insects and other prey. During the day, bark and stone centipedes usually remain hidden in cool, humid areas around structures.
- These centipedes are predators that feed on insects, spiders, and other small pests.
- They are most active at night and often hide during the day in dark, damp locations.
- They may enter buildings through cracks, gaps, doors, and other openings while searching for moisture or prey.
- Their many legs and quick movements can make them appear alarming, but they are generally not a serious threat to people.
Where Do You Find Bark & Stone Centipedes?
Because bark and stone centipedes prefer cool, damp environments with access to insects, they are often found in sheltered areas around homes and landscapes. Common locations include:
- Under rocks, stones, and landscape materials
- Beneath logs, tree bark, and fallen branches
- Around mulch beds and garden areas
- Under leaves and outdoor debris
- In basements and crawl spaces
- Inside garages, sheds, and storage areas
- Around damp areas near plumbing or foundations
- Under decks, porches, and outdoor structures
What Should I Do If I Have Bark & Stone Centipedes in Georgia?
Bark and stone centipedes typically do not pose a danger to people or animals, but they can become a nuisance when they enter homes or gather in damp areas. If you notice these centipedes, consider the following solutions:
- Reduce moisture around your home by fixing leaks, improving drainage, and using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around doors, windows, foundations, and utility entry points to limit access.
- Remove outdoor hiding places such as leaf piles, logs, rocks, and excess mulch near your home’s foundation.
- Keep basements, crawl spaces, garages, and storage areas clean and free of clutter where centipedes may hide.
- Store firewood, landscaping materials, and other debris away from the exterior of your home.
- Contact a professional pest control company if centipede activity continues or becomes difficult to manage.
Top 5 FAQs About Bark & Stone Centipedes in Georgia
Have questions about bark and stone centipedes and how to manage them? Check out the FAQs below, and contact us by phone or email for further help.
Are bark and stone centipedes dangerous?
No, these centipedes are not considered dangerous to most people. While they can bite if handled, they typically avoid humans and are more of a nuisance than a serious threat.
What do bark and stone centipedes eat?
Bark and stone centipedes are predators that feed on small insects and other pests. Their diet may include:
• Insects
• Spiders
• Larvae
• Worms
• Other small arthropods
• Insects
• Spiders
• Larvae
• Worms
• Other small arthropods
Why are bark and stone centipedes coming into my home?
They may enter homes while searching for moisture, shelter, or food sources such as insects. Cracks, gaps, doors, windows, and openings around foundations can provide easy entry points.
Do bark and stone centipedes damage homes?
No, these insects do not typically damage structures, furniture, or belongings. However, their presence may indicate moisture issues or other insect activity that could be attracting them.
How can I get rid of bark and stone centipedes?
Removing moisture, sealing entry points, and eliminating outdoor hiding places can help reduce centipede activity. If bark and stone centipedes continue appearing or become difficult to manage, a professional pest control company can inspect your property and recommend effective treatment options.
