If looks alone determined the threat level of a pest, then centipedes would be one of the most dangerous creatures on the planet. Thankfully, this is not the case which leaves us wondering, if centipedes are not the most dangerous creatures on the planet, where on the spectrum do they fall? Can they bite? Are they poisonous? Do you have to worry about them hurting you or your family? Our experts at The Original Bugman Pest Elimination, Inc. explored some of your pressing questions about centipedes in South Carolina, and we're here to discuss the answers.
What Are Centipedes?
Centipedes are yellowish to dark-brown pests known for having several pairs of legs. How many legs? Well, their name would suggest 100, but in reality, centipedes can have anywhere from 20 to 354 legs. This amount depends on how long a centipede has been alive. The one thing that makes centipedes creepier than most other pests is their speed and ability to transfer from walls onto ceilings without breaking pace. If you have ever disturbed a centipede and watched them run away, you know how quickly they travel.
Are Centipedes Dangerous?
Centipedes are dangerous, but only to the prey they hunt which are typically tiny insects. Although both venomous and carnivorous, centipedes pose no real threat to either humans or pets. They are also don't damage fabrics, or any other household items. All in all, centipedes are just nuisance pests who are unsightly and unwelcome around homes.
How To Prevent Centipedes From Getting Into Your South Carolina Home
Although not dangerous, centipedes are difficult in other ways. For one, they are extremely difficult to prevent. They typically come into your home searching for other pests. This means to effectively fight back against centipedes, you must also prevent the insects they hunt from getting into your home.
If you are up for the task, here is everything you have to do to effectively keep centipedes out of your South Carolina home:
- Purchase a caulking gun or some liquid cement. Use one of both of these items to fill in gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation along with spacing around window and door frames.
- Inspect window and door screens around your home, and make sure they are all rip and tear-free.
- If your exterior doors are not already equipped with door sweeps, install some yourself.
- Repair leaky faucets and fixtures in and around your home.
- Use a dehumidifier inside to keep humidity down.
- Make sure your gutters are in good working order and properly channel water away from your home’s exterior foundation.
- After every meal, store leftover foods inside airtight containers.
- Repackage opened cereal, pet food, and other dried goods inside larger plastic, metal, or glass containers.
- If you have pets, pick up and clean out their food and water bowls after they are done using them.
- Clean your home thoroughly at least once a week.
- Reduce the clutter in your home and around your property.
- Keep tree branches and shrubs trimmed away from your home’s exterior.
An Easier Way To Keep Centipedes Out Of Your Home
If preventing centipedes on your own seems daunting, we have an easier solution for you. Here at The Original Bugman Pest Elimnation, Inc., we offer detailed pest control plans designed to keep centipedes and the insects they hunt out of homes. If you are interested in finding a plan that is custom-built to fit your home’s individual needs, we are here to help.
Give us a call today to discuss your options or to schedule a service visit for your South Carolina home and property.
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