Why Centipedes and Millipedes in Boulder Properties Are a Symptom, Not Just a Problem
Centipedes and millipedes are not random visitors in Boulder 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.
Identifying Which Species You Have in Boulder
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.
How We Treat Centipede & Millipede Infestations in Boulder
Effective control requires both chemical treatment and environmental modification. Perimeter spray reduces the population entering the structure, while moisture and harborage reduction addresses the conditions sustaining the population.