Why Centipedes and Millipedes in Lansing Properties Are a Symptom, Not Just a Problem
Centipedes and millipedes are not random visitors in Lansing homes — they are indicators. High moisture in crawlspaces or basements, organic debris close to the structure, and insect populations in wall voids or lower floors all attract these arthropods reliably. Treating the population without addressing these conditions produces only temporary results.
Millipedes feed on decomposing plant matter and are driven indoors when soil becomes saturated — typically after sustained rainfall or autumn wet periods. They enter through foundation gaps, door thresholds, and utility penetrations, often appearing in large numbers overnight. Centipedes enter separately, following the insect prey populations that live in the same damp conditions.
How to Tell Centipedes and Millipedes Apart
Centipede: fast-moving, flat-bodied, one leg pair per segment, predatory. House centipedes are drawn indoors by insect prey and can deliver a mild bite if handled directly. Millipede: slow-moving, cylindrical, two leg pairs per segment, feeds on decomposing organic material. Millipedes coil defensively when disturbed and secrete compounds that cause skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals — handle neither species without protection.
Treatment Approach in Lansing
Our Lansing treatment approach runs on two tracks simultaneously. Residual perimeter treatment and interior application reduce the active population. Moisture assessment, entry point sealing, and harborage reduction advice remove the underlying conditions — so the same problem does not return with the next wet season.