Pest Guide for Millipedes
Many people mistake millipedes for centipedes. The two closely resemble one another with their dark color and dozens of legs. They are also both nocturnal and can be quite startling to the unsuspecting homeowner. At the first signs of trouble, swift and effective millipede pest control is essential to protect your home and prevent damage.
Ledford’s Millipede Pest Control
At Ledford’s, we’ve spent over 30 years eliminating pests throughout homes and businesses in South Carolina. Our team of pest control experts know how to spot the most subtle signs of trouble and track insects to their source. Our technicians will ensure that your home or commercial property is thoroughly assessed and any millipedes are eliminated for good.
Features
Millipedes are one of the most diverse types of Arthropods with over 1,000 species in the United States alone. They are most notable for their long, cylindrical bodies and many legs; their legs are arranged in two rows along their body with a single row along the front.
These worm-like insects are typically 1 to 2 inches long and are harmless to humans, but some species have glands that release a toxin that carries a foul odor and can cause skin irritation. They are also well-known for curling into a ball and not moving when touched.
Diet and Habitat
Millipedes live outside and are considered natural recyclers. They eat damp or decaying wood particles. They also eat decaying leaves and other plant material. If their habitat starts to dry out, millipedes will attack living plants.
You may also find millipedes in the backyard underneath piles of firewood or near trash bins. They prefer to live in damp, dark, and humid spaces. Millipedes are also highly sensitive to temperature, and are most commonly found in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and sheds.
Signs of Millipede Infestation
The most obvious sign of a millipede infestation is structural damage. They eat wood and other decaying material, so if your home has firewood, cardboard boxes or other sources of wood, you will likely find them nearby.
Since they do not shed or leave any droppings, it can be difficult to find other distinct signs of a millipede infestation. These insects tend to move in groups, and they are most active at night. You will likely notice them scrambling for cover when you turn on a light and startle them.
South Carolina Millipede Pest Control Services
Contact us today at Ledford’s Pest Control to schedule your appointment. Whether you suspect a pest problem or are dealing with a full-fledged infestation, we’re happy to help.
