Let’s be honest, we don’t want centipedes in our homes. They are creepy looking, and they move really fast, making them impossible to get rid of. So, why are they attracted to our homes? Like most pests that invade homes, they are just looking for a little food, water, and shelter. They can gain access to our homes through very small gaps, cracks, and crevices; many of which are so small that you would barely notice them. They can also get in around doors, windows, utility entrances, and vents. It’s almost impossible to keep them out without proper exclusion techniques and tools.
To make matters worse, they have nasty venom that they use to subdue their prey. However, they will only bite people if threatened, and their venom is rarely harmful to humans, only resulting in redness, swelling, and burning at the site. Centipedes generally are a nuisance pest; but as their numbers increase, you and your family may lose some sleep over them. Who wouldn’t? Once you know there is at least one there, it is hard not to imagine that they are crawling around in your bedroom at night!
So, what makes these guys so creepy? Well, besides the obvious! Could it be because they have anywhere from 15 to 177 pairs of jointed legs and long skinny front feelers? Could it be their yellowish gray, flat bodies with stripes? Maybe it’s because they don’t like the light; and they scurry across ceilings, walls, and floors seeking dark, damp corners? Yes, it could be all of the above. In any event, you will want a pest control service to get rid of them and keep them out for good.
You can use some preventative methods yourself to make your property and home less likely to attract centipedes. You could try removing random piles of debris and standing water from around your home. Keep plants and bushes trimmed and block all entry points to your home. Inside your home, you could tidy up clutter and use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture.
Ultimately, the safest and most efficient way to eradicate centipedes and any other insect from your home is to call a professional pest control company like Parkway Pest Services. Our pest professionals have had extensive training, have countless hours of hands-on experience, and have access to the latest technologies and tools that are effective and safe. One call to Parkway Pest and you can rest easy knowing that centipedes and many other common insects will be gone; and with our year-round services, you can know that they will not infest your home again. Now, that’s what I call peace of mind.