House centipedes in Briston, TN may not receive the warmest welcome due to their elongated bodies, numerous legs, and quick movements. They will usually be encountered in dim, moist locations such as your basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces, where they actively prey on other common household pests. Although their appearance can be frightening, House centipedes are generally harmless to humans and can even play a helpful role in managing other pest populations.

Are House Centipedes Dangerous?

Centipedes do have venomous fangs that they employ to kill their prey, but the venom they carry is not considered dangerous to humans. A bite from a house centipede might lead to a minor, localized reaction, that is much like a bee sting. Such incidents are exceedingly rare and typically occur only when the centipede is directly touched or senses a threat. In most cases, they will avoid human contact and are more interested in finding food sources.

Are House Centipedes Beneficial?

House centipedes can be beneficial in your home, especially when it comes to managing other pest populations. Their primary diet includes household pests such as insects, spiders, ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and various small arthropods. House centipedes are most active during the night. Their nocturnal hunting behavior equips them to effectively target other pests that tend to remain hidden during daylight hours. Their adeptness at locating and accessing areas like cracks, crevices, and dark corners enables them to focus on pests that might be hidden in these difficult-to-reach areas of your home.

What If I See a Centipede in My Home?

If you encounter a house centipede, there’s no reason to be startled. Here’s what you should do if you see a centipede in your home:

Stay Calm: House centipedes are more interested in finding food (other insects). than interacting with humans. Remember that they are not dangerous to you.
Observe from a Distance: If the house centipede is not causing any immediate issues, you can simply observe it from a safe distance. This can be an opportunity to appreciate its unique appearance and behavior.
Do Not Squash It: While it might be tempting to squash the house centipede, it’s better to avoid doing so. Not only does it serve no significant purpose, but it can also release a mild odor that some people find unpleasant.

House Centipedes Can Be a Sign of a More Significant Pest Problem: Contact the Experts

House centipedes do play a helpful role in managing pests, but their appearance indoors may be a sign of a more significant pest problem. They tend to thrive in areas where their preferred prey is abundant. If you happen to see house centipedes in your Bristol, TN home, it is highly advisable to reach out to pest control experts, such as those at Leo’s Pest Control. Our team can assist you not only with house centipedes but also with addressing any underlying pest infestations their presence may indicate.