13 Bugs That Look Like Centipedes: How to Identify and Get Rid of Them

Last Updated on June 8, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

Do you have a problem with bugs that look like centipedes? If so, you’re not alone. These pests can be difficult to get rid of, but with the right information, you can eliminate them from your home for good.

In this blog post, we will discuss 13 common bugs that look like centipedes and provide tips on how to identify and get rid of them. We will also provide some helpful prevention tips so you can keep these pests from returning in the future.

In this article

What Are Centipedes?

Centipedes are arthropods that have long, segmented bodies and many legs. They vary in size, with some species reaching over 30 cm in length. Centipedes are predators and typically feed on insects, spiders, and other small animals. Some centipede species can also deliver a painful bite to humans if they feel threatened.

Centipedes are found in a variety of habitats across the globe, including forests, deserts, and grasslands. They typically prefer to live in dark, moist places such as under logs or rocks. Centipedes are generally nocturnal creatures and will come out at night to hunt for food.

Bugs That Look Like Centipedes.

Did you know that there are bugs that look like centipedes? These pests are actually millipedes, and they can cause a lot of damage to your home if they’re not controlled.

1. Amazonian giant centipedes

What are Amazonian giant centipedes?

Amazonian giant centipedes are the largest species of centipede in the world, reaching lengths of up to 12 inches. They are found throughout Central and South America, and their diet consists mostly of insects and other small animals. While they are not considered dangerous to humans, their large size and powerful jaws can deliver a painful bite.

Amazonian giant centipedes vs Centipedes

Appearance: The Amazonian giant centipede is the largest centipede in the world, growing to over a foot in length. They are bright red with black legs and have up to 23 pairs of legs. Centipedes are smaller, usually only growing to be a few inches long. They can be different colors, but are most commonly brown or reddish-brown.

Habitat: Amazonian giant centipedes are found in the tropical rainforests of South America. They are also found in some parts of Central America and Mexico. Centipedes can be found all over the world, but they prefer warm, moist environments such as under rocks or leaves.

Diet: Both Amazonian giant centipedes and regular centipedes are carnivorous. They hunt at night for small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.

Predators: Amazonian giant centipedes have few predators due to their size and venomous bite. However, they can be eaten by snakes, lizards, birds, and mammals.

How to get rid of Amazonian giant centipedes.

If you have ever seen an Amazonian giant centipede, then you know how horrifying they can be. With their long bodies and many legs, they can be quite intimidating. Luckily, there are a few things that you can do in order to get rid of them.

The first thing that you need to do is to identify where they are coming from. This can be difficult, as they are able to squeeze into small spaces. Once you have found their point of entry, you need to block it off. This can be done with a variety of materials, such as rubber or metal.

Once you have blocked off their point of entry, the next thing that you need to do is to remove their food source. Amazonian giant centipedes typically eat insects, so you will need to get rid of any insects in your home. This can be done by using a variety of traps or chemicals.

After you have removed their food source, the next thing that you need to do is to make your home less hospitable for them. This means that you need to reduce the moisture in your home. You can do this by using a dehumidifier or by fixing any leaks.

2. Earwigs

What are earwigs?

Earwigs are small, dark-colored insects that have a pair of pincers on their rear end. They are most active at night and during the day they hide in damp places, such as under rocks or in leaf litter.

Earwigs get their name from an old wives’ tale that says they crawl into people’s ears and bore into their brains. However, this is not true! Earwigs are not dangerous to humans.

How to identify earwigs.

There are a few things to look for when trying to identify earwigs. Firstly, they have a pair of pincers on their rear end which they use for defense and to capture prey. Secondly, they are relatively small insects, usually ranging in size from about ½ an inch to ¾ of an inch. Finally, earwigs are dark brown or black in color and have a smooth, shiny body.

Centipedes vs earwigs.

Appearance: Centipedes have long, slender bodies with many legs. They are usually brown or black in color. Earwigs are dark brown or black and have a pair of pincers on their rear end.

Size: Centipedes can range in size from less than an inch to several inches long. Earwigs are typically about ½ an inch long.

Diet: Centipedes are predators and will eat just about anything they can catch, including other insects, spiders, and even small rodents. Earwigs are scavengers and feed on decaying plant matter as well as live plants. They may also eat other insects.

Habitat: Centipedes can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and even in homes. Earwigs are often found near sources of moisture, such as in gardens or under rocks.

Reproduction: Centipedes reproduce by laying eggs. The female will lay her eggs in a moist environment and then guard them until they hatch. Earwigs reproduce by laying eggs in a nest. The female will then care for the young until they are old enough to fend for themselves.

How to get rid of earwigs.

If you have earwigs in your home, don’t panic! While they may be creepy looking, earwigs are not dangerous to humans. They are simply a nuisance pest that can be eliminated with a little effort. Here are some tips on how to get rid of earwigs:

– First, try to identify where the earwigs are coming from. If you can find the source, you can eliminate them at the root.

– Next, set out traps to catch the earwigs. There are a number of different traps you can use, including sticky traps and baited traps.

– Finally, if all else fails, you can always resort to pesticides. But be sure to use them safely and only as a last resort!

3. Firebrats

What are firebrats?

They are small, wingless insects that are closely related to silverfish. Firebrats get their name from their love of heat – they are often found near furnaces, fireplaces, and other warm areas in homes.

While they do not cause fires, as their name might suggest, firebrats can be a nuisance because of their constant movement and the noise they make as they scurry around.

Centipedes vs firebrats.

Appearance: Centipedes are long and slender, with many legs. They vary in color, but are usually brown or black. Firebrats are small, wingless insects that resemble silverfish. They are dark gray or black in color.

Habitat: Centipedes live in damp areas, such as basements, closets, and bathrooms. Firebrats prefer warm, humid environments, such as boiler rooms and furnaces.

Diet: Centipedes feed on insects, spiders, and other small animals. Firebrats eat paper, cardboard, and insulation.

Size: Centipedes can grow up to 12 inches long. Firebrats are about ½ inch long.

Behavior: Centipedes are nocturnal predators. Firebrats are active during the day and night.

Defense: Centipedes can bite, but their venom is not harmful to humans. Firebrats do not have any defenses against predators.

How to get rid of firebrats

There are a few things you can do to get rid of firebrats. The first is to make sure that there are no food sources for them. This means sealing up any cracks or crevices where they might be able to find food.

The second is to use traps. There are a few different types of traps that you can use, but the most effective ones are glue traps and snap traps. You can find these at your local hardware store. Finally, you can also use insecticide.

4. Giant desert centipedes (Scolopendra heros)

What are giant desert centipedes?

Giant desert centipedes are the largest type of centipede in North America. They can grow up to 20 cm (about eight inches) in length and are pale yellow or pinkish in color. These nocturnal predators are found in arid regions of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America.

Centipedes vs giant desert centipedes

Appearance: Both centipedes and giant desert centipedes are long and slender. Centipedes have more legs, while giant desert centipedes have larger bodies.

Color: Centipedes are usually brown or red, while giant desert centipedes can be either yellow or orange.

Habitat: Centipedes live in damp environments such as beneath rocks or in mulch. Giant desert centipedes live in dry environments such as deserts.

Diet: Centipedes eat insects, while giant desert centipedes eat lizards, snakes, and rodents.

Behavior: Centipedes are nocturnal, while giant desert centipedes are diurnal.

Reproduction: Centipedes reproduce by laying eggs, while giant desert centipedes reproduce by giving birth to live young.

How to get rid of giant desert centipedes.

There are a few things you can do to get rid of giant desert centipedes. One is to set up a trap. This can be done by placing a container with food in it near where you’ve seen the centipede.

Once the centipede is inside, cover the top of the container so it can’t escape.

Another way to get rid of a giant desert centipede is to use a pesticide. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and apply it carefully so you don’t harm yourself or anyone else. If you have pets, make sure they’re out of the area while you’re doing this.

5. House Centipedes

What are house centipedes?

House centipedes are long, thin, many-legged creatures that can be a nuisance in your home. They’re fast runners and good climbers, so they can be difficult to catch. And their bites can be painful, though they’re not harmful to humans.

Centipedes vs house centipedes

Appearance: Centipedes are long, slender insects with many legs. They range in color from brown to red and black. House centipedes are dark yellow or brown with three dark stripes running down their backs.

Habitat: Centipedes live outdoors in damp areas such as under leaves, stones, decks, or in mulch around plants. House centipedes prefer damp, dark areas such as basements, closets, or attics.

Diet: Centipedes eat insects and spiders. House centipedes eat insects, spiders, and other small arthropods.

Behavior: Centipedes are predators that use their long legs to run down prey. They will also enter homes in search of food. House centipedes are timid insects that will run away from humans. If they are cornered, they will bite.

Reproduction: Centipedes lay their eggs in the soil. House centipedes lay their eggs in damp areas such as basements or closets.

6. Millipedes

What are millipedes?

Millipedes are arthropods that have long, segmented bodies with many legs. They are often called “thousand-leggers” because of their many legs. Millipedes are not insects, but they are related to crabs, lobsters, and shrimp.

Millipedes vary in color, but most are brown or black. They range in size from about one-half inch to two inches long. Most millipedes live in moist areas such as under leaves, logs, and stones. Some millipedes can be found in caves or high in the mountains.

Millipedes are harmless to humans. They eat decaying leaves and other dead plant matter.

Centipedes vs millipedes

Appearance: Centipedes are long and slender, while millipedes are shorter and thicker.

Color: Centipedes can be brown, gray, or red, while millipedes are usually black or brown.

Legs: Centipedes have 15 pairs of legs, while millipedes have anywhere from two to over 100 pairs of legs.

Movement: Centipedes are fast runners, while millipedes are slower crawlers.

Habitat: Centipedes can be found in damp places like basements and bathrooms, while millipedes live in moist areas like gardens and forests.

Diet: Centipedes eat insects, spiders, and other small animals, while millipedes eat dead plants and leaves.

How to get rid of millipedes.

There are a few things you can do to get rid of millipedes. One is to make sure that there is no food source for them. This means keeping your house clean and free of clutter, and sealing up any cracks or openings where they might be able to get inside.

Another way to get rid of millipedes is to use a chemical insecticide. This should be done as a last resort, and only if you are sure that the millipedes are coming into your home from outside.

7. Pauropods

What are pauropods?

Pauropods are small, segmented creatures that live in the soil. They are closely related to millipedes and centipedes, and like their relatives, they have many legs. Pauropods range in size from less than a millimeter to a few centimeters long. Most pauropods are gray or brown, but some species are brightly colored.

Pauropods are important members of the soil community. They help to break down dead plant matter and release nutrients into the soil. Pauropods also eat other small creatures, such as nematodes and springtails. This helps to control populations of these pests.

Pauropods are not harmful to humans, and in fact, they can be helpful. If you find pauropods in your garden or yard, leave them be! They will help to keep the soil healthy and free of pests.

Centipedes vs Pauropods

Appearance: Both centipedes and pauropods have a long, segmented body. Centipedes are typically dark brown or black, while pauropods are white or pale yellow.

Size: Centipedes can grow up to 12 inches in length, while pauropods only reach about 0.04 inches in length.

Habitat: Centipedes can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and caves. Pauropods live in damp soil or leaf litter.

Diet: Centipedes are predators that eat insects, spiders, and other small animals. Pauropods are scavengers that feed on decaying plant matter.

Centipedes and pauropods may look similar at first glance, but these two creatures are actually quite different. Centipedes are much larger than pauropods, and they have a dark coloration. Pauropods are very small and pale in comparison.

8. Pill Bugs (Armadillidiidae)

What are pill bugs?

Pill bugs are a type of land dwelling crustacean. They are also known as woodlice, and are related to shrimp, crabs, and lobsters. Pill bugs are found in damp environments, and prefer to live in areas with decaying vegetation.

Pill bugs are fairly small, ranging from about ½ an inch to one full inch in length. They are dark gray or black in color, and have seven pairs of legs. Pill bugs are able to roll into a ball when they feel threatened.

Pill bugs are not harmful to humans, and can actually be beneficial to gardens and yards. Pill bugs help to break down organic matter, which helps to create rich soil.

Centipedes vs pill bugs

Appearance: Centipedes are long and slender, while pill bugs are short and stout.

Color: Centipedes are typically brown or black, while pill bugs are gray or black.

Habitat: Centipedes live in damp places like basements or mulch, while pill bugs prefer dry locations like under rocks or leaf litter.

Diet: Centipedes are predators that eat insects and spiders, while pill bugs are scavengers that eat dead plants or animals.

Size: Centipedes can be up to six inches long, while pill bugs are only about one inch long.

How to get rid of pill bugs.

If you have pillbugs in your home, don’t panic! These small, dark-colored insects are harmless to humans and pets. Although they’re not dangerous, pillbugs can be a nuisance. Here are a few tips on how to get rid of pillbugs:

-Seal up any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation, doors, and windows. This will help prevent pillbugs from entering your home.

-Remove any sources of moisture from your home. Pillbugs are attracted to damp areas. Fix any leaks, and keep an eye out for condensation.

-Vacuum up pillbugs that you see in your home. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag afterwards so the pillbugs don’t escape.

-Talk to your local hardware store about insecticides that can be used to get rid of pillbugs. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully.

9. Pseudocentipedes

What are pseudocentipedes?

They are insects that have a segmented body, but they do not have the usual two pairs of legs per segment. Instead, they have one pair of legs on each segment. This makes them look like centipedes, hence their name.

However, pseudocentipedes are not closely related to centipedes at all; in fact, they are more closely related to millipedes! Pseudocentipedes can be found in a variety of habitats, such as forests and grasslands. They usually feed on small insects and other invertebrates.

Centipedes vs pseudocentipedes

Appearance: Centipedes have one pair of legs per body segment. They vary in size from a few millimetres to 30cm long. Pseudocentipedes have two pairs of legs per body segment. They vary in size from a few millimetres to around 15cm long.

Habitat: Centipedes can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, deserts and caves. Pseudocentipedes are found in damp environments such as rainforests.

Diet: Both centipedes and pseudocentipedes are carnivorous. They hunt small insects and other invertebrates.

Predators: Centipedes and pseudocentipedes are both predators and scavengers. They are sometimes eaten by larger invertebrates, reptiles, mammals and birds.

How to get rid of pseudocentipedes.

There are several ways to get rid of pseudocentipedes, but the most effective method is to use a pesticide. Pesticides can be bought at most hardware stores or online. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

If you have children or pets, be sure to keep them away from the area where you will be spraying the pesticide. Once you have sprayed the area, make sure to seal any openings that pseudocentipedes could use to enter your home.

This includes cracks in walls, gaps around doors and windows, and vents. You should also check for food sources that might attract them, such as garbage cans and pet food bowls. Be sure to clean up any crumbs or spills that might attract them.

If you see any pseudocentipedes, be sure to kill them immediately. The best way to do this is to step on them or squish them with your hands. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to suck them up. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag in an outdoor garbage can.

10. Silverfish

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are small, wingless insects that get their name from their silvery-grey color. They are nocturnal creatures that prefer to live in dark, humid places like basements and attics.

Silverfish are not harmful to humans, but they can be a nuisance because they reproduce quickly and eat many things found in homes, including paper, glue, and even dead skin cells.

Centipedes vs silverfish

Appearance: The silverfish is a small, wingless insect. It is covered with tiny scales and has long antennae. Silverfish are pale grey or silver in color. They are about ½ inch to ⅜ inch long. Centipedes are long, slender insects that have many legs. They can be brown, red, or greenish in color. Some centipedes can be up to 12 inches long.

Habitat: Silverfish live in dark, damp places such as basements and closets. They are often found near bathtubs, sinks, and drains. Centipedes prefer to live outdoors in damp areas such as under leaves, stones, or logs.

Diet: Silverfish eat carbohydrates such as sugar and flour. They also eat paper, glue, and dead insects. Centipedes are carnivores. They hunt at night for small insects, spiders, and other small animals.

Behavior: Silverfish are nocturnal creatures that are most active at night. During the day, they hide in cracks and crevices. Centipedes are also nocturnal hunters. They use their long legs to run fast and catch their prey.

Reproduction: Silverfish lay their eggs in small groups of up to 50 eggs. The eggs hatch in about two weeks. Centipedes lay their eggs singly. The eggs hatch in about two weeks.

Predators: Silverfish have few predators. They can be eaten by lizards, frogs, and birds. Centipedes are predators themselves. But they can be eaten by larger insects, spiders, snakes, and rodents.

How to get rid of silverfish.

If you have silverfish in your home, don’t panic. Although they can be a nuisance, silverfish are relatively easy to get rid of. Here are a few tips to help you get rid of these pests:

– Vacuum regularly. Silverfish love dark, damp places. By vacuuming regularly, you can remove some of their hiding places and make your home less inviting to them.

– Reduce moisture. Silverfish thrive in moist environments. To reduce moisture in your home, fix any leaks, use a dehumidifier, and ventilate damp areas such as the kitchen and bathroom.

– Keep food sealed. Silverfish are attracted to food sources. To keep them away from your food, store pantry items in sealed containers and don’t leave food out on the counter.

– Use traps. You can purchase silverfish traps at most hardware stores. These traps are typically baited with a sweet or pungent scent to attract silverfish.

11. Sow Bugs

What are sow bugs?

They are small, dark brown to black, segmented creatures that measure about 1/2 inch long. They have two pairs of legs located just behind the head and a hard shell-like covering. Under this cover, they have six to eight smaller plates that protect their bodies. Sow bugs are able to roll up into a tight ball when disturbed or threatened.

Sow bugs are not harmful to humans but can be a nuisance if they invade your home in large numbers. They are often found in damp, dark places such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. These pests feed on decaying organic matter and can sometimes damage plants.

Centipedes vs sowbugs

Appearance: Centipedes are long, slender insects with many legs. They range in color from pale yellow to dark brown and may have stripes or patterns on their bodies. Sowbugs are small, dark-colored insects that resemble miniature pillbugs. They have two pairs of legs and a segmented body.

Habitat: Centipedes live in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and grasslands. They are often found under rocks or in dark, humid places. Sowbugs thrive in damp environments and are commonly found in gardens and near bodies of water.

Diet: Both centipedes and sowbugs are scavengers that feed on dead organic matter. Centipedes also prey on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods.

Predators: Centipedes are predators of small insects, spiders, and other arthropods. Sowbugs have few natural predators but may be eaten by centipedes, birds, and rodents.

How to get rid of sowbugs.

Sowbugs are small, dark-colored pests that often infest homes. They’re usually found in damp areas, such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. While they don’t bite or sting humans, they can be a nuisance. If you have sowbugs in your home, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.

Vacuum them up: One of the easiest ways to get rid of sowbugs is to vacuum them up. This will remove them from your home and keep them from coming back. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag after each use.

Use a dehumidifier: Sowbugs like damp areas, so using a dehumidifier can help get rid of them. This will also help prevent them from coming back.

Remove their food source: Sowbugs eat decaying plants and organic matter. If you remove their food source, they’ll have no reason to stay in your home.

Use pesticides: If all else fails, you can use pesticides to get rid of sowbugs. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the directions.

12. Spiders

What are spiders?

Spiders are arachnids, a class of joint-legged invertebrate animals that also includes scorpions, mites, and ticks. All spiders have venom glands and fangs that they use to kill their prey. However, not all spiders are dangerous to humans – in fact, most spider bites will only cause minor swelling or itching.

There are over 35,000 known species of spiders, making them one of the most diverse groups of animals on the planet. Spiders can be found in nearly every corner of the world, from rainforests to deserts. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and can have colorful or drab bodies.

Centipedes vs spiders

Appearance: Centipedes have long, flat bodies with many legs. They are brown or black in color. Spiders have round, small bodies with eight legs. They can be different colors, but are often brown or black.

Habitat: Centipedes live in wet, dark places such as under rocks and logs. Spiders live in dry, dark places such as in trees and bushes.

Diet: Centipedes eat insects. Spiders eat insects and other small animals.

Size: Centipedes can be up to six inches long. Spiders can be up to three inches long.

Behavior: Centipedes are aggressive and will attack humans if they feel threatened. Spiders are not aggressive and will only bite humans if they feel threatened.

How to get rid of spiders.

There are a few things you can do to get rid of spiders in your home. One is to keep your house clean and clutter-free. Spiders like to hide in dark, secluded places, so eliminating potential hiding spots will make your home less inviting to them.

Another way to deter spiders is to seal any cracks or openings around your windows and doors. You can also use spider traps or repellents to get rid of spiders, but be sure to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions before using any products in your home.

If you have a serious spider problem, you may need to call in a professional pest control company for help.

13. Woodlice

What are woodlice?

Woodlice are small, land-dwelling crustaceans that are found in damp environments. They are also known as pillbugs or sowbugs. Woodlice have a hard exoskeleton and segmented bodies.

Each body segment has two pairs of legs. Woodlice are not harmful to humans and are actually beneficial to gardens because they help break down organic matter.

Centipedes vs woodlice

Appearance: Woodlice have a segmented, pill-shaped body and are approximately ¼ to ½ an inch in length. They are brown or gray and have 14 legs. Centipedes are flattened from top to bottom and can range in size from less than an inch to six inches long. They also have segmented bodies but only have one pair of legs per segment. Centipedes are generally brown or reddish-brown in color.

Habitat: Woodlice are found in damp, dark places such as under rocks, logs, and leaf litter. They also live in gardens and flowerbeds. Centipedes can be found both indoors and outdoors. They prefer damp, dark places such as basements, cellars, and crawl spaces.

Diet: Woodlice are herbivores and feed on decaying plant matter. Centipedes are carnivores and will eat just about anything they can catch including insects, spiders, and even small mammals.

Predators: Woodlice have many predators including birds, snakes, and spiders. Centipedes also have many predators including birds, bats, and rodents.

How to get rid of woodlice

There are a few things you can do to get rid of woodlice. One is to vacuum them up. Another is to use a dustbuster or similar device to suck them up. You can also sweep them up with a broom and then dispose of them outside. Finally, you can use an insecticide spray designed for killing insects such as woodlice. Be sure to follow the directions on the label. If you have children or pets, make sure they are not in the area when you use insecticides.

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Conclusion

So, there you have it! The next time you see a bug that looks like a centipede, don’t be alarmed – it’s probably harmless. However, if you’re still not sure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult an expert. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

FAQs

What is a worm that looks like a centipede?

A worm that looks like a centipede is most likely a millipede. Millipedes are not actually worms, but they are often mistaken for them because of their long, segmented bodies. Millipedes typically have two pairs of legs per body segment, while worms have only one pair. This is the main way to tell the difference between a millipede and a worm. Millipedes are mostly harmless creatures that eat decaying plant matter.

What is the difference between an earwig and a centipede?

Earwigs are small, black insects that have a pair of pincers on their rear end. They are not aggressive and will only pinch humans if they feel threatened. Centipedes, on the other hand, are much larger and can be up to 12 inches long. They are also aggressive and will bite humans if they feel threatened. Both insects are found in dark, damp places.