Species Insects & ArthropodsHouse Centipede

House Centipede

Scutigera coleoptrata

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata)

This swift arthropod is often found indoors, where it preys on insects and spiders. Despite their alarming appearance, house centipedes are beneficial predators.

Habitat
Typically found in damp areas of homes, such as basements and bathrooms.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of household pests including spiders, bedbugs, and termites.
How common
Common

Best time to see a House Centipede

The best time to see a House Centipede is March–August, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 19,101 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Not certain it is a House Centipede? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Recent House Centipede sightings near you

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