A centipede is a member of the Chilopoda class of anthropods and has one set of legs (Two legs) per body segment. Centi-means 100 hence most people believe centipedes have 100 legs. In reality, they can have anywhere from 30-350 legs. Centipedes can grow up to 12 inches long, depending on the species. All centipedes are carnivorous, and they kill or paralyze their prey before devouring them.
Most centipedes are venomous. They have venom glands that are contained within the front limbs or maxillipeds. Centipedes use these limbs for catching their prey and injecting it with venom. Centipedes can bite people, and these bites can cause severe irritations and allergic reactions. The bite is more painful when the centipede is large. Small children, infants, pets, and people allergic to insects can have more severe reactions. Usually, centipedes feed on other household pests like ants, silverfish, spiders, cockroaches. They are generally beneficial as they keep a check on pests, but the fear of them has given them a scary reputation as a pest.
Centipedes are not insects and are closely related to lobsters, crayfish, and shrimp. Their first pair of front legs contain venom. In the unusual case of sting to humans, the pain is compared to that of a bee sting. It is advised to wash the exposed skin with soap and water, also using an ice pack to prevent swelling. If in case the area becomes infected or allergic symptoms occur, you should immediately get medical attention. House centipedes most commonly found in San Antonio like the cool, damp environment of the bathroom, drains, showers, etc. You should not try to combat a house centipede infestation by yourself as they can move quickly from one place to another or even sting you in the process. If you ever face any such troubles with centipedes, contact an exterminator in San Antonio like Accurate Pest Control at the earliest.
Centipedes are very innovative when it comes to getting into your home. They can get in under the door, through cracks, or crawl through the window gaps, just about any opening works for them. To avoid this, it is recommended to keep the doors and window gaps sealed. Centipedes feed on other insects, eliminating their food source would work at keeping them away. Also, reducing the moisture in and around your house is an excellent preventive measure. Repair leaking taps, get rid of leaves, wood, compost, or any other moisture or mold around your home. This is sure to keep them away.
Professional exterminators at Accurate Pest Control understand the habits of centipedes and know precisely how to get rid of them from your house, in an environmentally safe manner. Visit our website or contact our toll-free number for assistance regarding your pest control problems. Our team will be glad to discuss the best solution for all your pest control problems.