What Do Centipedes Eat In The Wild & In Homes? | Orkin

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GET A QUOTEOrkinWhat Do Centipedes Eat?

Centipedes are nocturnal predators of insects and other small animals. A short list of possible prey includes:

  • Spiders

  • Cockroaches

  • Moths

  • Crickets

  • Earthworms

  • Bed bugs

  • Silverfish

  • Other centipedes

Centipede Illustration

Centipede Illustration

General Information

Centipedes have poor vision but are able to find prey by using their antennae. Once suitable prey is located, they use their quick speed to capture, bite, and inject their prey with paralyzing venom. The bite and delivery of venom is by a pair of claws located on the centipede's first body segment.

Once subdued, the prey is passed to the centipede's mouth where mandibles (teeth) enable them to chew up and consume the prey. Although there's a possibility centipedes could bite a homeowner or pet, they are generally considered beneficial since they help control other pest populations.

What Eats Centipedes and Millipedes?

Resources

Dig Deeper on Centipedes

Why are there Centipedes in My Bathroom?

Centipedes' Reproductive Cycle

Types of Centipedes in North America

How do Centipedes Get in the House?

Can House Centipedes Bite Humans | Get Rid of Centipedes

Do Centipedes Bite? | Get Rid of Centipedes

How to Repel and Control Centipede Infestations

I have centipede bugs in my home

There are bugs in my bathroom sink with many legs

Can Centipedes be Dangerous to Humans or Animals?

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Tag » What Does House Centipede Eat