Centipede (Chilopoda)
Treatments for this pest are included in these services:
Learn About Centipedes in Arizona
If you’ve ever encountered a centipede in Arizona, you know how unpleasant they can be. From their alarming appearance to their painful bites, these creeping creatures are high on the list of pests no one wants to find in their home or business.
Without effective pest control solutions, however, it’s difficult to stop centipedes from invading your space and making life miserable. Educate yourself on the types of centipedes found throughout Arizona below as well as how Responsible Pest & Scorpion Control prevents them.
Types of Centipedes Found in Arizona
There are three types of centipedes that commonly invade homes in Arizona: the common desert centipede, the giant desert centipede, and the house centipede. While the two desert centipedes are considered extremely venomous, house centipedes rarely sting and actually feed on other household pests.
The information below is useful for residents and to know, but it’s crucial to leave the actual pest control to professionals. The bites of giant desert centipedes and common desert centipedes can cause nausea, headaches, and even tissue damage to your skin. Without the proper training and protective equipment, an attempt to solve a centipede issue on your own could lead to you getting bitten. Contact Responsible Pest & Scorpion Control for reliable centipede solutions.
Giant Desert Centipede
The largest of Arizona’s three centipede species, the giant desert centipede is typically 6 1/2 inches long but sometimes reaches 8 or 9 inches. It has a dark-gray head and yellowish-orange body with 20 pairs of legs. Giant desert centipedes typically live outdoors under rocks, bricks, or potted plants. Unfortunately, they often seek shelter in old boxes and dark, dry areas inside homes and buildings.
Common Desert Centipede
Measuring between 5 and 7 inches in length, the common desert centipede is only slightly smaller than its close relative, the giant desert centipede. It has a bright-red head and an orange-yellow body, which is segmented by dark-gray bands. They prefer to hide under rocks and plants outdoors but may wander into houses in search of shelter and pests to hunt.
House Centipede
Despite being the least harmful centipede species found in Arizona, the house centipede has an exceptionally alarming appearance. Its body is dark gray-yellow with three linear stripes. Thanks to its 15 pairs of pale-yellow legs, it resembles a spider at a glance. House centipedes use their many legs to dart around residences in search of smaller pests to eat.
Get Rid Of Arizona Centipedes
If centipedes have impeded your daily routine at home, Responsible Pest & Scorpion Control is here to help with our integrated pest management (IPM) solutions. Once our team has inspected and assessed your centipede issue, we’ll work with you to create a customized, effective treatment plan to control and prevent infestations. Worried about centipedes returning? If they do come back, we perform additional services at no charge.
Stop Arizona centipedes in their (many) tracks. We offer residential and commercial pest control throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. Take the first step toward eliminating centipedes and get your quote today!
FAQs About Centipedes in Arizona
What types of centipedes are common in Arizona?
In Arizona, the most commonly encountered centipedes are the giant desert centipede and the common house centipede. The giant desert centipede, in particular, is known for its size and potentially painful bite.
Are centipedes dangerous to humans or pets?
While centipedes aren’t usually dangerous, some species, like the giant desert centipede, can deliver a painful bite if provoked. These bites can cause localized swelling and discomfort, so it’s best to avoid handling them.
Why do I find centipedes in my home?
Centipedes enter homes in search of moisture and prey, such as insects and spiders. They are often drawn to damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Reducing moisture and sealing entry points can help keep them out.
How can I prevent centipedes from entering my home?
To prevent centipedes, reduce moisture by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Sealing cracks, keeping your home clean, and removing other insects (their food source) can also deter them from entering.
When should I contact Responsible Pest and Scorpion Control for centipede control?
If you notice a persistent presence of centipedes or are concerned about bites, it’s time to call a professional. Responsible Pest and Scorpion Control can assess the situation and provide targeted treatments to keep your home centipede-free.
