Millipede
Long, cylindrical, many-legged arthropods that migrate indoors during heavy Florida rains.
In Florida, Millipede (Diplopoda) rates as a low concern. Rhino Pest Management, licensed (#JB242881) and insured, covers general pest control throughout Florida's Treasure & Space Coast and holds a 5.0★ rating over 16 Google reviews. Free, no-obligation estimate: (772) 589-6842.
Photo: Insects Unlocked (CC0) · Wikimedia Commons
Round-bodied, 2–6 cm, brown to reddish-brown, with two pairs of legs per body segment (distinguishing them from centipedes, which have one pair per segment). They curl into a spiral when disturbed and move slowly.
Moist organic matter — decomposing mulch, leaf litter, logs, and the soil under landscape timbers. Common throughout Florida; populations explode after sustained rain.
- Millipedes clustered on the exterior foundation and walls after rain
- Dead or dying millipedes on floors inside the garage, laundry room or entry
- Large numbers appearing overnight following a heavy rainfall event
Millipedes don't bite, sting or spread disease. They are a moisture-and-decay indicator. The main nuisance is their numbers during mass migrations indoors after rain. Some species secrete a mild irritating fluid when crushed.
Is this urgent?
No. Millipede is a nuisance, not a threat to your health or your house. Most people fold it into a regular service visit rather than booking a special trip. If the numbers keep climbing after you've dealt with the moisture and food sources, that's when it's worth a call.
Rhino treats the perimeter and harborage areas with a product that kills on contact, combined with moisture reduction advice (reduce deep mulch, improve drainage) to lower the population long-term.
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