Don't Let Millipedes Destroy Your Richmond Garden

How To Identify Millipedes

Millipedes in Richmond are small, segmented creatures that typically measure one to two inches long. They can be brown, red, or black in color and have two pairs of legs on each body segment. They are often confused with centipedes. So, how can you tell the difference between a centipede and a millipede?

Though they may look similar, there are a few key ways to differentiate millipedes and centipedes. Centipedes are carnivores, while millipedes are scavengers that primarily eat decaying leaves, wood, and dead insects. They're worm-like creatures that come in various colors and can measure between one and two inches long. A centipede's head is on its first body segment, while a millipede's head is at or near the front end of its body. Millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment, while centipedes only have one pair per segment. Centipede mandibles can pierce human skin, while millipede's maxillae are blunt and not harmful to humans.

Are Millipedes In Richmond Venomous?

Now that you know how to identify millipedes, you may be wondering if these pests are dangerous. Are millipedes poisonous?

The answer is no; millipedes are not venomous, so there is no need to be overly concerned about a millipede bite. Though they don't have venom, they can still cause harm to humans. If disturbed, millipedes may emit a foul-smelling liquid as a defense mechanism. This fluid can irritate your skin or eyes, so it's best to avoid handling them if possible.

What Attracts Millipedes To Richmond Homes

Now that you know a bit about millipedes, let's look at what attracts them to your home in the first place. What are some things that attract millipedes?

• Moisture: Millipedes need moist environments to survive and often invade homes searching for moisture. If your home has a leaky faucet, leaky roof, or high humidity levels, you're more likely to experience a millipede infestation.
• Decaying Vegetation: Millipedes are scavengers and feed on decaying leaves, wood, and dead insects. If you have a lot of rotting vegetation in your garden or near your home, millipedes will be more likely to invade.
• Darkness: Millipedes are shy creatures and prefer dark, moist environments. If you have a lot of overgrown vegetation or a lack of lighting around your home, millipedes will feel comfortable nesting there.

Millipedes are generally harmless creatures, but they can become a nuisance in your Richmond garden if you have damp soil near the house or lots of dark and moist vegetation. As long as these conditions don't exist, millipedes will not be attracted to your garden because it does not contain any food for them to eat.

Additionally, millipedes often reside in moist environments like your home's basement or crawl space. If left untreated, a millipede infestation in your house can create moisture problems that could lead to structural damage.

How To Get Rid Of Millipedes For Good

Now that you know what attracts millipedes to your Richmond home, let's look at how to get rid of them for good. How do you get rid of millipedes?

There are a few different ways you can use to get rid of millipedes, but the most effective approach is using a combination of methods. Here are a few ways to get rid of millipedes:

• Moisture control: Address any leaks or high humidity levels in your home. Reduce the amount of rotting vegetation near your home.
• Physical removal: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove millipedes from your home. Wear gloves and dispose of them in outside garbage cans.
• Chemical control: Use millipede-specific insecticides to kill millipedes. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and take precautions to avoid harming yourself or your family.

If you're experiencing a millipede infestation in your Richmond home, contact Go-Forth Pest Control for professional home pest control services. Our experts have been serving Richmond and the surrounding areas for over 60 years. We will be able to identify the source of your millipede problem and develop a plan to get rid of them for good! For more information or to request a free quote, contact our team of experts today.