Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template House centipede


Problem
A thin centipedelike creature with long legs is crawling on the floor or wall. It is up to 1½ inches long, with very long antennae and legs in comparison with its body size. The antennae and rear set of legs can be more than twice the length of the body. The creature runs quickly, with sudden stops.

Analysis
(Scutigera coleoptrata)
  House centipedes are found both indoors and outdoors in warm regions of the United States, but only indoors where winters are colder. Unlike other centipedes, which wander indoors but cannot reproduce there, house centipedes live and reproduce indoors. House centipedes prey on other insects, and become most numerous where there is an abundance of insects to feed on. They prefer dampness, and thrive in typically moist areas such as cellars, closets, or bathrooms. Outdoors they are common in moist piles of compost and other debris. House centipedes are most active at night. They seldom bite humans, but when they do, the bite is no more severe than a beesting.

Solution
To control house centipedes and the insects they feed on, spray indoor areas with ORTHO Household Insect Killer--Formula II or ORTHO HI-POWER Ant, Roach & Spider Spray--Formula II, especially along baseboard cracks. Or fog the premises with ORTHO HI-POWER Indoor Insect Fogger--Formula IV. Eliminate moist areas in and around the home. Air out damp places. Outdoors, remove piles of compost and other materials that provide hiding places near the house.