Are Centipedes Poisonous? What You Need to Know and How to Handle an Infestation

Centipedes are often a cause for concern when they appear in your home, and one of the most common questions people have is whether they are poisonous. While centipedes can look intimidating due to their many legs and fast movements, the good news is that most species are not harmful to humans. However, understanding their nature and how to deal with an infestation is important for your peace of mind and safety.

Are Centipedes Poisonous?

Centipedes do have venom, which they use to paralyze and kill their prey, primarily insects and other small invertebrates. Their venom can cause mild pain, redness, or swelling in humans if they bite, but this is rare. Most centipede species, especially those that live in homes, are not capable of delivering a dangerous bite to humans. However, their bites may still be uncomfortable, especially if you are allergic.

Why Do Centipedes Invade Your Home?

Centipedes typically seek shelter in damp, dark environments where they can find food. Areas like basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces are ideal for centipedes as they thrive in moisture. They usually feed on other pests, such as ants, termites, and cockroaches, which makes them beneficial in controlling smaller infestations. However, if you find them in large numbers or near your living spaces, it can be unsettling.

How to Prevent a Centipede Infestation

Preventing centipedes from entering your home is primarily about reducing their access to food and moisture:

1. Seal entry points – Close gaps around windows, doors, and pipes.
2. Reduce moisture – Fix leaks and ensure proper ventilation in damp areas like bathrooms and basements.
3. Remove clutter – Centipedes love to hide in piles of paper, clothes, and wood, so keep your home tidy and organized.
4. Limit other pests – Centipedes feed on insects, so controlling ants, cockroaches, and other pests can naturally reduce centipede activity.

When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service

While the presence of a few centipedes in your home is usually not a major concern, an infestation can be a sign of other underlying issues, such as excessive moisture or other pest problems. If you notice an increase in the number of centipedes or if they are causing significant distress, it’s a good idea to contact a professional pest control service.

A pest control expert can conduct a thorough inspection to identify the root cause of the infestation and offer safe, effective treatments. They can also provide advice on ongoing prevention strategies to ensure centipedes don’t return. Professionals can eliminate other pests centipedes may be feeding on, helping to resolve the problem at its source.

Conclusion

Centipedes are not highly dangerous to humans, though their presence can be unsettling. By understanding their behavior and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of an infestation. If you’re dealing with a large number of centipedes or other pests, a professional pest control service can help provide long-term solutions and peace of mind. Whether it's eliminating pests, sealing entry points, or advising on moisture control, experts can ensure your home remains safe and pest-free.