Lots of Centipedes Around House?
I recently moved to a new (old) house in Palm Bay, Fl. and have noticed quite a few centipedes almost every day around our porch and in our screened enclosure. They are large, with a bluish gray color, with brown around the legs. They are under our floor matt and in and around the potted plants we have as well. Any idea what they are and how to get rid of them?
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ANSWER: The insect you described sounds very much like the Florida Blue Centipede. One of two of the largest centipedes in Florida. If you live in a wooded area, I recommend clearing any and all tree debris from around the property. The Florida Blue is especially active around oaks. They are actually beneficial to the home owner. They consume small insects such as termites, carpenter ants, small roaches, and crickets. Unfortunately, if your seeing large numbers around your home, I would recommend a thorough termite inspection if you havent had one in a while. If the porch is primarily wood framed, and since it is more exposed to the elements, there is a good chance of a termite infestation leading to the centipede invasion.
Date: November 18, 2009
Categories: Exterior Pest Control, FAQs