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Millipedes

Oxidus gracilis
A millipede - an occasional invader

Millipedes are sometimes called "thousand-leggers" because of their many pairs of legs, but they can actually have anywhere from 30-90+ pairs of legs, depending on the species. The leggiest is Illacme plenipes, which can have more than 333 pairs of legs.

Pest Stats

Color

Blackish or brownish, some red, orange or with mottled patterns.

Shape

Long, cylindrical and wormlike

Size

1/16 – 4½ ” (2-155 mm)

Antennae

Yes

Region

Found throughout U.S.

Millipede Photos

Millipedes are sometimes called "thousand-leggers" because of their many pairs of legs, but they can actually have anywhere from 30-90+ pairs of legs, depending on the species. The leggiest is Illacme plenipes, which can have more than 333 pairs of legs.

Pest Stats

Color

Blackish or brownish, some red, orange or with mottled patterns.

Shape

Long, cylindrical and wormlike

Size

1/16 – 4½ ” (2-155 mm)

Antennae

Yes

Region

Found throughout U.S.

Habits

Most millipedes are nocturnal and are primarily scavengers, feeding on decaying plants and occasionally dead insects. In the autumn, millipedes are known to migrate in great numbers.

Habitat

Millipedes are found throughout the world, with about 1,000 species occurring in the United States alone. They are typically found in areas of high moisture and decaying vegetation, such as under trash, in piles of grass clippings, flower-bed mulches, piles of leaves, etc. Millipedes do not usually survive indoors for more than a few days unless there are high moisture conditions and a food supply is present.

Threats

Some millipede species give off an ill-smelling fluid through openings along the sides of the body. Underscoring the importance of millipede control, this fluid can be toxic to small animals and pets, and can cause small blisters on humans.

Millipede Prevention

The most effective way to prevent and get rid of millipede infestations is to reduce areas of moisture in and around your home. Consider running a dehumidifier if you have a damp basement. Keep lawns mowed so that grass does not retain moisture, and water lawns in the early morning to allow grass to dry during the day. Remove leaf piles and grass clippings. Store firewood off of the ground.

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