Millipedes
Diplopoda class
Millipedes have cylindrical, segmented bodies with two pairs of legs per segment (unlike centipedes' one pair). They curl into a spiral when disturbed. They move slowly and cannot bite. Most are dark ...
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How to Identify Millipedes
Millipedes have cylindrical, segmented bodies with two pairs of legs per segment (unlike centipedes' one pair). They curl into a spiral when disturbed.
Millipedes have cylindrical, segmented bodies with two pairs of legs per segment (unlike centipedes' one pair). They curl into a spiral when disturbed. They move slowly and cannot bite. Most are dark brown or black with a hard, shiny exoskeleton.
Millipedes Behavior & Habits
Understanding how millipedes behave helps prevent infestations
Millipedes are detritivores that eat decaying plant material and are typically found outdoors in mulch, leaf litter, and soil. They invade homes in fall seeking moisture or shelter, or when populations explode after wet conditions. They cannot survive long indoors due to low humidity.
Millipedes Risks & Dangers
What millipedes can do to your health and property
Health Risks
Millipedes don't bite or sting. Some species secrete defensive fluids that can cause minor skin irritation or staining but aren't dangerous.
Property Damage
No property damage. They don't eat wood, fabric, or food. They're purely a nuisance when they invade in large numbers and die indoors.
Signs of Millipedes Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
Millipedes in Boise & the Treasure Valley
Millipedes are common fall invaders in the Boise area, especially in neighborhoods with mature landscaping and heavy mulch use. They often invade en masse after wet weather in late summer and early fall. Basement apartments and ground-floor units are most affected.
How We Eliminate Millipedes
Professional treatment for complete elimination
Millipede control focuses on exterior treatment and habitat modification. We apply barrier treatments around the foundation, treat mulch beds and hiding areas, and recommend landscaping changes to reduce moisture near the home. Interior treatment removes current invaders and deters entry.
How to Prevent Millipedes
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
Millipedes Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Why are there suddenly hundreds of millipedes?
Millipede populations can explode after wet conditions increase decomposing plant material (their food). When soil becomes saturated or conditions change, masses of millipedes migrate—often toward homes. These invasions are usually temporary.
What's the difference between millipedes and centipedes?
Millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment, move slowly, curl when threatened, and eat decaying plants. Centipedes have one pair of legs per segment, move quickly, don't curl, and are predators that can bite.
Will millipedes damage my home?
No. Millipedes don't eat wood, fabric, food, or anything in your home. They can't survive indoors due to low humidity. They're nuisance pests only—unsightly but harmless.
Similar Pests
Learn about other pests in this category