Types Of Florida Millipedes
In total, there are about 50 varieties of millipede in Florida. Unlike centipedes, millipedes cannot sting or bite. These creatures, rather than attacking, typically respond to perceived threats by curling up in a defensive coil position. Most times, if you notice millipedes in your yard, you do not need to be alarmed. Millipedes do not pose a threat to your yard or garden. They are actually quite beneficial, as they break down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and clipped grass.
However, if millipedes start to find their way out of your backyard and into your home, it can be quite an alarming sight. Fortunately, you can rely on our pest control team to discourage and prevent millipedes from entering your household. At Champion Termite & Pest Control, you can rely on us to successfully rid your home of unwanted millipedes.
Contact our pest control company today for effective Florida millipede control!
Florida Ivory Millipede
Florida Ivory millipedes are recognizable by their solid, dark body and light underside and legs.
As with nearly all millipedes, Florida Ivory millipedes are commonly found in moist, dark areas such as in mulch and under flower pots. They are nocturnal, typically emerging from their hiding spots to feed at night.
The Florida Ivory millipede is unique in releasing a foul-smelling substance that can stain clothes. The purpose of this toxin is to prevent predators from eating or harming the millipede. However, if humans come into contact with the hydrogen cyanide released by the Florida Ivory millipede, the amount should be minute enough not to elicit a terrible response. Some burning, irritation, or general allergic reaction may occur, but should not be severe.
North American Millipede
The North American millipede, also referred to as the “rust” millipede, has a dark-colored body interspersed with dark-red stripes. These millipedes are active starting in spring and hibernate during the winter. North American millipedes can grow twice as long as other North American millipedes, reaching up to 4 inches in length. They can often be found hiding under rocks, rotting logs, and other decaying plant matter.
Yellow-Banded Millipede
The Yellow-Banded millipede is invasive to Florida. Originally from the Caribbean, it is very common. These millipedes are marked by yellow bands, dark-colored bodies, and dark-red legs. Also called bumblebee millipedes, they measure 2.5 to 3 centimeters long and have red antennae and legs.
Millipede Treatment & Control
If you see a millipede in your home, it is usually a sign there may be excessive moisture in your backyard. Millipedes will leave their habitat in your yard when it is too wet. In the process of seeking a drier, less moist place, they might accidentally stumble their way into your household.
Due to this, a great way to deter millipedes from entering your home is to water your plants only as needed and ensure that your garden or yard has a sufficient drainage system.
Removing thatch and practicing regular aeration can also be helpful. By disposing of dead leaves and organic plant material, you are removing the millipede's preferred food source. In turn, the millipedes in your garden will be persuaded to migrate elsewhere in search of debris to feed on.
In addition to aerating your yard, always keep mulch from touching your home. This mulch provides easy access for termites, millipedes, and other pests as they enter your home.
How Our Pest Control Company Can Help
If the millipede population in and around your home becomes especially bothersome, our exterminators can safely respond to the issue. We understand that millipedes are a very important part of your garden’s ecosystem. Because of this, our team will utilize environmentally safe pest control methods to remove millipedes from your home, without causing great disruption to the entire group. For more information on how we approach our Florida pest control treatments, or to schedule a free pest inspection for your property, contact our staff today!
