Are Centipedes In My Katy Home As Dangerous As They Look?
We have several species of centipedes in Katy that range from gross to terrifying, depending on what species has gotten into your home. Fortunately, these creepy bugs rarely bite. Small centipedes, which are referred to as common house centipedes, aren't known to bite at all, though they do have the mouthparts to do it. If one of these little centipedes does get spooked enough to bite you, it isn't likely to hurt more than a tiny pinch. Larger centipedes, however, can deliver a painful bite that some people compare to a bee sting. When they bite, they inject venom into the wound but it is a weak venom that rarely produces any reaction. So, "Are centipedes dangerous?" Not really. But that doesn't mean you want them in your home. Here are some ways they get in and a few tips to keep them out.
Centipedes In Katy
Katy, Texas, is home to several species of centipedes, with the Texas redheaded centipede (Scolopendra heros) being one of the most commonly encountered. These arthropods are known for their elongated bodies, numerous legs, and distinctive red head, making them easily identifiable. While centipedes play a valuable role in controlling insect populations, they can pose problems in residential areas.
Centipedes are carnivorous and primarily prey on insects and other arthropods, helping to keep pest populations in check. However, they can become nuisances when they enter homes in search of food or shelter. Their presence can be unsettling, as they are known to deliver a painful and venomous bite when provoked or threatened. While their venom is not typically dangerous to humans, it can cause localized pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Preventing centipedes in Katy is essential for several reasons. First, their presence indoors can be unnerving and potentially dangerous, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities to insect bites. Additionally, keeping centipedes out of homes helps maintain a balanced ecosystem, as excessive predation on insects can disrupt local insect populations. To prevent centipedes, homeowners can seal cracks and crevices, reduce clutter in and around their homes, and address other pest issues that might attract centipedes. Proper pest management practices can help maintain a harmonious environment in Katy.
How Centipedes Get Into Katy Homes
There are some pests that can chew their way into a home, centipedes aren't one of them. They take advantage of holes created by other pests, such as mice, rats and carpenter ants. These holes are usually created in wood that has been softened by moisture. When looking for ways centipedes might be getting into your home, you should start in areas that appear damp. You can also look for the following common entry points:
Holes in door and window frames.
Gaps around door and window frames, pipes, wire conduit and wall penetrations.
Cracks in foundation walls.
Holes in door and window screens.
Cracked mortar.
Holes in the sills (also called sole plates) of your home.
Damaged or missing door sweeps.
Gaps in weatherstripping.
The Secret To Keeping Katy Centipedes Out
Take the time to seal any openings they might be using. Once you're done, work toward addressing the conditions that are leading to moisture damage, such as cleaning your gutter system, repairing damaged downspouts, loosening compacted ground, creating gradients to prevent the capture of rainwater, etc.
Addressing humidity and moisture inside your home can help as well. If you have rooms that get humid and stay humid, consider installing dehumidifiers. Some times, however, it isn't practical to attempt to reduce humidity to control centipedes. A typical bathroom has all the moisture these bugs need and a bathroom with a jetted tub is centipede heaven, especially if you're prone to leaving water in the tub.
How A Professional Can Help
Homes that have centipede attractants that cannot be altered, benefit most from a residential pest control plan that provides coverage for centipedes, such as Modern Plus, Signature and Signature Plus from Modern Pest Control. These programs put a barrier around your home that takes down centipedes as they enter and exit. Our highly-trained pest professionals can assist you with the elimination of any centipedes that are currently inside your Katy home. Reach out to us today for immediate assistance. We can help.