Threatening or unusual appearances are just one reason why pests frighten people. A good number of them have eyes that are big and beady, large paws, and sharp teeth and claws. Many are kind of slimy and can move quickly and suddenly. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if you can approach them without getting hurt. For notorious creepy crawlers, there’s plenty of information about how to handle them. The answers aren’t as clear for infrequently discussed critters like millipedes.
Most homeowners won’t know where to begin with millipedes. It’s not exactly common knowledge how these bugs function and what their risks are. That said, folks could be completely clueless about how to prevent them. Learn ways to avoid millipedes, and what Alta Pest Control can do to help you.
How Do Millipedes Operate? What Are the Dangers?
Millipedes are an inch long or less. North American species have orange markings on their black or brown bodies. Since their slender figures are segmented and rigid, many misidentify them as worms. They have a pair of legs for each segment, which makes it look like they have millions of them. However, they’ll have 750 at maximum.
Given that millipedes consume natural matter and rely on water to survive, they prefer to be outdoors. You’re likely to find clusters of them beneath rocks and logs. The pests will also surround rotting leaves and plants, mulch, and trash bins. With a dry and hot climate, they’ll change their venue to your home. Once inside, here’s where they’ll settle:
- Porches And Decks
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Under Sinks
- Crawlspaces
- Basements
- Garages
Gaps in foundations, doors, and vents are typical passageways for millipedes. Alternatively, they may be brought in with affected furniture or boxes. These invertebrate arthropods are most active at night, so spotting one in broad daylight is evidence of an infestation.
Luckily, millipedes aren’t as detrimental as the majority of pests are. You won’t have to worry about being stung or bitten, or seeing your beloved pets attacked. Further, they don’t distribute illnesses or ruin personal effects. Don’t touch them directly though. Your skin may become very irritated or discolored, or develop blisters. Be advised that millipedes release a defensive fluid that consists of hydrochloric acid. The substance is toxic in significant amounts.
How Can You Prevent Millipedes?
Once more, millipedes depend on organic material. While you won’t be able to eliminate this, there are still useful adjustments you can make. It’s all about ensuring your land isn’t a conducive environment for these bugs by:
- Having all moisture glitches and leaks fixed right away.
- Flushing out your vents and gutters often.
- Controlling interior warmth by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner.
- Cutting down on clutter and trying not to have storage items stacked along walls.
- Patching up holes in utility lines and foundations.
- Putting sweeps on doors that face the outside.
- Trimming grass and greenery regularly.
- Laying plants and gardens two feet away from the property.
- Removing decaying wood, leaves, and similar from the yard.
What Can Alta Pest Control Do About Millipedes?
Retail pesticides can be pricey, limited in effectiveness, or highly noxious. It’s a wiser choice to reach out to us at Alta Pest Control. We specialize in low-impact solutions that are safe and gentle on the ecosystem. Our skilled technicians will employ thorough treatments designed to eradicate millipedes, such as perimeter barriers, granules, baseboard applications, baiting programs, and more. Follow-up and recurring visits, no-cost consultations, and guarantees are available. You’ll be offered a free inspection without obligation when you call us today! Don’t get a blister! Contact the pros now!
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