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Centipedes in New Jersey: Identification, Risks & Prevention

Centipede

what are Centipedes?

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​Centipedes are long, segmented arthropods belonging to the class Chilopoda. Known for their many legs and fast movements, they are usually found in damp, dark environments such as basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. Although centipedes are predators that feed on insects, their sudden appearance indoors often causes alarm.

white and black centipede

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  • Bites: Centipedes can bite with their venomous front legs (forcipules). Bites are typically harmless to humans, causing only mild redness or swelling.

  • Nuisance Factor: Their fast movements and appearance often make them unsettling to homeowners.

  • Indicator Pests: Finding centipedes indoors may signal moisture issues or other insect infestations they prey upon.

are centipedes harmful?

centipede control

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Since centipedes thrive in damp conditions, control focuses on reducing their habitat.

  • Inspection: Identify areas of high moisture and insect activity.

  • Moisture Control: Use dehumidifiers, repair leaks, and improve ventilation.

  • Exclusion: Seal cracks and gaps around foundations, doors, and windows.

  • Targeted Treatments: Apply perimeter insecticides and residual dusts in cracks, crevices, and wall voids.

Giant Centipede

types of centipedes in nj

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  • House Centipede: Long legs, yellowish-gray body with dark markings; most common indoor species.

  • Soil Centipedes: Small, slender centipedes often found in soil and mulch.

  • Giant Desert Centipede (rare in this region): Large, reddish centipede, more common in southern U.S.

centipedes appearance

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  • Size: House centipedes are typically 1–1.5 inches long; some species grow up to 6 inches.

  • Color: Yellowish-gray with dark stripes or markings.

  • Legs: 15 pairs of long, delicate legs in adults.

  • Body: Flattened with distinct segments, each bearing one pair of legs.

centipedes habitat

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  • Indoors: Basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, and wall voids.

  • Outdoors: Under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and mulch beds.

  • Conditions: Prefer dark, damp environments where prey insects are present.

centipedes diet

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  • Carnivorous predators that feed on insects, spiders, silverfish, and other small arthropods.

  • Use venom to immobilize prey before consumption.

centipedes lifecycle

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  • Eggs: Laid in soil or hidden damp areas.

  • Larvae: Hatch with fewer legs; grow additional pairs with each molt.

  • Adults: Reach maturity in 1–3 years; can live several years indoors.

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