The Key To Keeping Millipedes Out Of Your Western Massachusetts Garden

May 10, 2022

In: Occasional Invaders

When insects and creatures aren’t a part of your expertise, you may not know what it takes to keep them away. At best, you might have information passed along by word of mouth. An example of this is the general tip that storing your food properly can help deter critters. With meal material out in the open or readily available, creepy crawlers have an incentive to be around your home or business. You’re likely to hear details about specimens with ferocious reputations, but millipedes aren't included, and it can be unclear how to handle them. Pest control in Western Massachusetts can fill in the gaps.

The average person only has basic facts about millipedes. For instance, they slither around like worms and have many legs. That’s not enough to combat their populations with success. Learn more about their behaviors and risks and why commercial millipede killer isn’t practical. American Pest Solutions can assist you with prevention and elimination. We offer high-quality millipede pest control.

How To Identify Millipedes

At the largest, millipedes in North America are around an inch long, and many are much smaller than that. There is less variation in terms of color; these critters are either brown or black. Their bodies are rather slim but very firm and segmented. Regarding their name, it’s commonly believed that they have one million legs; however, this is a myth. At maximum, the bugs will only have 750, according to records. 

Organic matter is essential to a millipede’s survival; they rely on it to breed and feed. You will see collections of them by wood, mulch, and decaying plants. You might come across them after you lift rocks or garbage cans too. They’ll venture indoors when the weather is too warm or dry for them to be comfortable. Millipedes usually slip through openings in foundations, doors, and vents. They settle in dim spaces with a moisture source.

You can expect to discover them in:

• Garages
• Sinks
• Basements
• Tubs
• Laundry Rooms
• Closets

It’s worth noting again that professional pest control is needed to manage these bugs. Millipede killer from stores will only produce mild relief if any at all.

Are Millipedes In Western Massachusetts Venomous? 

A millipede infestation is confirmed with sightings during the day because these pests are nocturnal. You can be exposed to their venom, so you can't hesitate to take action. Millipedes utilize a defensive fluid that will lead to painful and unsightly blisters.

What Attracts Millipedes To Western Massachusetts Homes?

Millipedes are dependent on natural settings. They often put their eggs in soil or wrap them up with plant matter. When they feast, it will be on wet or rotting debris from wood, leaves, and greenery. Your lawn and gardens will magnetize the bugs, and the same goes for your damp interior rooms.

How To Get Rid Of Millipedes For Good

You should use preventative protocols with “do it yourself” items and retail pesticides because they are ineffective against a millipede infestation. Millipede repellents can be pricey and hazardous.

Take these steps:

• Repair moisture dysfunctions
• Swill vents and gutters often
• Use a dehumidifier
• Avoid stacking storage against the wall
• Reduce clutter
• Vacuum frequently
• Seal holes in foundations
• Routinely cut grass and greenery
• Distance plants from the property
• Discard dead organic matter
• Clean storage and animal areas regularly

Our safe, industrial-grade treatments at American Pest Solutions will satisfy when millipede repellents won’t. An entomologist formulated our plans, and licensed consultants will be visiting your property. Call us today for a free evaluation for millipede pest control!