It is called a Millipede. Millipedes are sometimes called “thousand-leggers” because of their many pairs of legs, but they can actually have anywhere from 30 – 90+ pairs of legs, depending on the species. The leggiest is Illacme plenipes, which can have more than 333 pairs of legs and is found near Silicon Valley per National Geographic.
Is It a Centipede or Millipede?
According to Pest World, Centipedes are sometimes called “hundred-leggers” because of their many pairs of legs as compared to Millipedes which are called “thousand-leggers”. So they are very different.
What To Look For?
Millipedes are often confused with centipedes, but tend to look more “wormlike” in appearance. They blackish or brownish, sometimes with red or orange patterns.
Where You’re Likely To Spot Them?
Most millipedes are nocturnal. They are typically found in areas of high moisture and decaying vegetation, such as under trash, in piles of grass clippings or piles of leaves. Millipedes do not usually survive indoors for more than a few days unless there are high moisture conditions and a food supply is present.
Are Millipedes Toxic or Harmful to Humans or Animals?
Yes! Some millipede species give off a foul-smelling fluid through openings along the sides of the body. Underscoring the importance of millipede control, this fluid can be toxic to small animals and pets, and can cause small blisters on humans.
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