If you were to ask someone what their least favorite bug was, there’s a good chance that centipedes would be high on the list. These many-legged critters can be downright horrifying, especially when they come scurrying out from under a rock or piece of furniture. And while they might not be everyone’s favorite creatures, it’s still important to know about the different types of centipedes that can be found in Texas.

So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of centipedes that call the Lone Star State home.

What Are Centipedes?

Centipedes are long, thin arthropods with many legs. They are commonly found in homes and gardens and can be a nuisance if they enter your home. They are predators and will eat other insects and spiders. Some centipedes can also bite humans, though their bites are usually not dangerous.

They vary in size, but most centipedes are about 1-2 inches long. They have a hard exoskeleton and are brown or red in color. Centipedes can live for up to 6 years.

If you see a centipede in your home, you can try catching it and releasing it outside. If you have a persistent problem with centipedes, you may need to contact a pest control professional.

What Are The Types of Centipedes in Texas?

There are over 8,000 species of centipedes worldwide and about 60 species in the United States. Some of the most common ones in Texas include:

1. Texas Redheaded Centipede (Scolopendra heros)

These centipedes belong to the carnivorous family and hunt for different small species and insects such as spiders, butterflies, grasshoppers, cricket, and many more. Also called Giant Desert Centipede or Giant Sonoran centipede, this animal makes his daily diet by eating snakes, toads, lizards, and many more animals like this. This is one of the most common species in Texas and is found in large numbers in the US.

• The growth rate of this centipede is fast and is above 6.5 inches.
• It can be found in nearby areas of Northern Mexico and Texas. It can be found in great numbers in these areas.
• With the mixed diet plans and efficient hunting skills, this is considered one of the most venomous species that hunts both vertebrates and invertebrates.
• They are well known as predators, and the most liked prey of this species are reptiles and rodents.
• By using its venom, it overpowers its prey. Its bite is not deadly, and the pain level depends on the amount of venom. Its bite can cause headaches, vomiting, nausea, and skin darkening.

2. Eastern Bark Centipede (Hemiscolopendra marginata)

The Eastern Bark Centipede can be noticed in large amounts in Texas. This specie usually lives underground and is found on the tree bark or a standing tree stump; at that place, they prey on their target or small creatures. They usually prey underground, but when they cannot find any underground specie, they remain on the bark of the trees and search for insects.

• Bark centipedes are well-known because they are fast-moving, vigorous, and active animals of the centipede family.
• The growth rate of this species is about 2 inches.
• They are usually black in color, considered the venomous species that remain active at nighttime.
• They can be noticed and known for their yellow legs and reddish-brown bodies. 
• The centipedes prefer to live and survive in their natural environment and have efficient hunting skills.
• Their bite can cause deep pain to humans, but usually, their bite is not deadly and can be cured easily.
• If the centipede bite causes continuous pain and does not disappear in a few days, it is necessary to visit a doctor and seek medical arrangements.

3. Common Desert Centipede (Scolopendra polymorpha)

The common desert centipede, also known as Tiger Centipede, has an orange body with black stripes. It can be found in abundance in the states of California and also in Texas. Also, it is smaller than other types of centipedes.

• It usually grows at the rate of 4.5 inches.
• This specie can be found primarily in deserts and rocks to find the best shelter in the summer heat.
• These centipedes search for their prey during the daytime and remain in their shelter at nighttime.
• It is also one of the venomous species, and its venom can cause necrosis in humans and other animals.
• Also, it is difficult to remove the venom from the human once it is injected; it takes two days to level up its venom.
• It remains in its habitat and does not harm any specie; when it feels unsafe or hurt, it will bite. The bite is painful but not life-taking.

4. House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata)

House centipedes are indoor friendly and can be found all over Texas. They are capable of living in indoor and outdoor environments according to their preferences. House centipedes can be found in the basement of the house because they like to live in warm and humid conditions.

• They are not venomous or dangerous animals; they are friendly and cannot bite human skin.
• Their bite is painful, but the risks are low. They only bite when they feel unsafe or handled roughly. Commonly, they avoid human interaction and stay away from humans.
• These species are well known because of their long lives. A fact says they can live for about 3 years inside the house. During their stay the home, female species lays eggs.
• They are hard to catch because they run quickly after seeing the humans. An estimate says that they can run at the speed of 40mph.
• To avoid the risk of these species being in the house, remove their food sources, seal all the holes in the walls, and block all the entry points.

5. Brown Centipedes (Lithobius forficatus)

These centipedes originated from Europe and can be found in abundance in Texas. They are like house centipedes and are not venomous and harmful. They are well known because of their multiple molts and body and extra pair of legs. The species is known for its numerous molts. Each molt has its body segment and an extra pair of legs.

• They live in the basements of the house, can live on the ground surface, and do not depend on the conditions.
• They eat a spider, slugs, worms, and other small insects. Also called Stone Centipedes, they can hide under stones during the daytime.
• This type of centipede also has multiple subspecies, around 50 are known around the world at this time.
• Centipedes have low or poor eyesight. They use their long back legs to feel the surroundings. To find its mate, the female ejects pheromones which the males respond to.

6. Arizona House Centipede (Scutigera linceci)

It is the smallest specie of the house centipede. It only grows to a total of 1.5 inches possessing 15 body segments.

• The specie is yellow and has black lines between the body’s segments.
• They eat spiders, insects, roaches, and other small species.
• Their diet is more diverse, and they eat a wide range of small, soft insects.
• This specie is very quick and can run inside and outside the house through the small openings.

Also Read: How To Identify a False Widow Spider

What Do Centipedes Look Like in Texas?

The appearance of centipedes can vary greatly depending on the species, but in general, they are elongated creatures with many legs. They range in color from brown to red to yellow and can be anywhere from a few millimeters to over 30 centimeters in length. Predators hunt primarily at night and use their long legs and sharp claws to capture prey.

Are Centipedes Common in Texas?

It is not unusual to see a centipede in Texas. In fact, many different species of centipedes call the Lone Star State home. While most centipedes are harmless to humans, there are a few species that can deliver a painful bite.

If you have spotted a centipede in your home or yard, there is no need to panic. These creatures are more likely to be found outdoors in areas with high moisture levels. However, they can sometimes find their way indoors in search of food or shelter.

Also Read: Spiders That Jump

How Do You Get Rid Of Centipedes In Texas?

If you have seen a centipede in your home, it is likely that there are many more where that came from. Centipedes are attracted to dark, humid areas and can often be found in basements, crawl spaces, and other damp areas. While they are not typically harmful to humans, their presence can be unsettling. If you want to get rid of centipedes in your home, you can do a few things.

1. Reduce Moisture

One of the most effective ways to get rid of centipedes is to reduce the moisture in your home. Centipedes thrive in moist environments, so you can dramatically reduce their population by making your home less hospitable to them. 

Check for any leaks in your plumbing and repair them as soon as possible. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home, such as the basement or crawlspace. And be sure to keep your gutters clean and free of debris so they can properly drain water away from your home.

2. Remove Their Food Source

Another way to get rid of centipedes is to remove their food source. Centipedes feed on insects, so eliminating bugs in your home, you can also eliminate centipedes. Be sure to seal up any cracks or crevices where bugs might be able to enter your home. You should also regularly vacuum and sweep your floors to reduce the number of bugs that are available for centipedes to eat.

3. Use Chemical Treatments

You may need to resort to chemical treatments if you have a serious infestation of centipedes. You can purchase pesticides at your local hardware store or online. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging carefully and only use the chemicals in well-ventilated areas. If used improperly, pesticides can be dangerous to humans and pets.

4. Call a Professional

If you are unsure of how to get rid of centipedes in your home correctly, or if you have a severe infestation, it is best to call a professional exterminator. They will be able to safely and effectively eliminate the centipede problem in your home.

What Months Do Centipedes Come Out In Texas?

Springtime is when most centipedes are out and about in Texas. However, these pests can be active year-round in some parts of the state. If you have centipedes in your home, it’s likely because they’re seeking shelter from the heat outside. Centipedes are also attracted to moisture, so areas with high humidity levels are more likely to have an infestation.

FAQs

How Did I Get Centipedes?

Centipedes can enter your home in several ways, including:

• Through cracks and crevices in the foundation or exterior walls
• From gaps around doors and windows
• Through vents, drains, and other openings

How Serious Are Centipedes?

While centipedes are not typically considered serious pests, they can be a nuisance. They can also cause problems if they enter your home in large numbers. If you have a centipede infestation, you may notice:

• An increase in the number of insects in your home, as centipedes feed on many common household pests like ants, cockroaches, and silverfish.
• Bites from centipedes. While most centipede bites are not serious, some people may experience allergic reactions.

Are Centipedes Poisonous In Texas?

No, centipedes are not poisonous in Texas. However, they can bite if they feel threatened. Bites from centipedes are not typically serious, but some people may experience allergic reactions.

What Do Centipedes Eat-In Texas?

Centipedes in Texas eat a variety of insects, including ants, cockroaches, and silverfish. They will also sometimes eat larger prey, such as spiders and mice.

Are There Centipedes In Austin?

Yes, there are centipedes in Austin. If you have a centipede infestation, you may notice an increase in the number of insects in your home, as centipedes feed on many common household pests.

Are Texas Millipedes Poisonous?

No, millipedes are not poisonous in Texas. However, they can release a foul-smelling liquid when they feel threatened. This liquid can irritate if it comes into contact with your skin.

Should I Let House Centipedes Live?

No, it would be best if you did not let house centipedes live in your home. While they are not poisonous, they can bite if they feel threatened. They can also be a nuisance if they enter your home in large numbers. If you have a centipede infestation, you should contact a pest control professional to have them removed.

Will Centipedes Crawl In Your Bed?

No, centipedes will not typically crawl in your bed. However, they may enter your home through cracks and crevices in the foundation or exterior walls or through gaps around doors and windows.

How Big Do Texas Centipedes Get?

Most centipedes in Texas are between one and four inches long. However, some species can grow up to eight inches long.

What Is The Difference In A Centipede And A Millipede?

The difference between millipedes and centipedes lies in their leg positioning. Millipedes have two sets of legs per segment. Centipedes, on the other hand, have one set of legs per segment on the body side. Both millipedes and centipedes are venomous, but centipede venom is more potent. Centipede venom is used to kill prey, while millipede venom is used for self-defense. Millipedes mostly eat decomposing plants, while centipedes feast on insects.

If you have any questions or concerns about getting rid of centipedes in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, or any other part of Texas, be sure to contact a professional pest control company like us for assistance.