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Pest Library · Crawling insectsHouse Centipedes Identification Guide
How to identify house centipedes, the fast, long-legged insects common in Ontario basements.
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How to identify
What house centipedes look like
House centipedes have a flattened body and 15 pairs of very long legs that make them look much bigger than they are. They move very fast.
They live in damp areas and hunt other insects at night.
Signs you have house centipedes
- Fast-moving centipedes in basements and bathrooms
- Sightings in tubs and sinks
- Other insects present that they feed on
Are they dangerous?
They are mostly harmless to people, though a bite is possible if handled. A lot of centipedes usually means moisture and other insects.
How to prevent them
- Run a dehumidifier in the basement
- Fix leaks and improve ventilation
- Seal gaps around basement windows and doors
- Reduce clutter and boxes on basement floors
Quick facts
Scientific nameScutigera coleoptrata
Size2.5–4 cm
ColourYellow-grey with dark stripes
Most activeYear-round indoors
Found inBasements, bathrooms, laundry rooms
Risk levelLow (nuisance)
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