Crawling Pest

Millipede Control

Cylindrical arthropods that feed on decaying organic matter and can invade Chicagoland homes during wet weather or when seeking shelter.

Size

1/2 to 1.5 inches long

Color

Brown to black

Habitat

Moist soil & leaf litter

Threat Level

Low - Beneficial

Millipede identification guide
100+
Legs

Millipede Identification & Behavior

Learn to identify millipedes and understand their beneficial role in the ecosystem, plus when control may be necessary.

Physical Features

  • 1/2 to 1.5 inches long (up to 4cm)
  • Cylindrical, worm-like body
  • Brown to black coloration
  • Two pairs of legs per segment
  • Can have 100+ legs total

Beneficial Role

  • Break down organic matter
  • Improve soil quality
  • Feed on decaying leaves
  • Active mainly at night
  • Curl up when disturbed

Indoor Invasions

  • Enter during heavy rains
  • Seek shelter in basements
  • Large numbers can be alarming
  • May damage young plants
  • Die quickly indoors without moisture

Prevention & Exclusion

Entry Point Sealing

  • • Seal cracks in foundations
  • • Install weatherstripping on doors
  • • Use caulk around windows
  • • Screen basement vents

Moisture Management

  • • Improve drainage around foundation
  • • Use dehumidifiers in basements
  • • Fix leaky pipes promptly
  • • Ensure proper guttering

Natural Management

Landscaping Tips

  • • Remove excess mulch near foundation
  • • Clear leaf litter regularly
  • • Trim vegetation away from house
  • • Maintain dry perimeter around home

Beneficial Note: Millipedes are actually helpful in gardens! They decompose organic matter and improve soil health. Control is usually only needed when they enter homes in large numbers.

Simple Removal

  • • Vacuum up intruders
  • • Sweep and dispose outside
  • • Most die naturally without moisture
  • • Focus on preventing entry

Professional Millipede Management

While millipedes are beneficial outdoors, large invasions can be concerning. Our experts provide effective exclusion and management solutions.

Entry Point Analysis

We identify how they're getting inside

Exclusion Services

Professional sealing and barriers

Moisture Solutions

Address underlying moisture issues