In Adelaide and South Australia, millipedes can quickly become a nuisance, especially during the wetter months. At Jim’s Termite and Pest Control Adelaide, we specialise in effective millipede control to protect homes and businesses from these persistent pests.
In this guide, we’ll cover what millipedes are, which types are common in South Australia, ways to prevent infestations, and how our professional pest control approach can help.
Call Jim’s Termite and Pest Control Adelaide on 131 546 for a reliable solution and free quote to solve your millipede problems!
Millipede Control: What Are Millipedes?
Millipedes are small, segmented arthropods with two pairs of legs per body segment. Though often mistaken for insects, they belong to the class Diplopoda, differing significantly from centipedes.
Unlike centipedes, millipedes are not hunters; they consume decaying organic matter, helping to break down plant materials in natural ecosystems.
Millipedes prefer dark, damp environments and are typically found in soil, under logs, or within leaf litter. While they’re beneficial outdoors, millipedes can become a problem when they enter homes.
They are known to migrate in large numbers, especially during seasonal changes when they seek stable environments to escape extreme outdoor conditions.
Types of Millipedes Found in Australia
Australia is home to several species of millipedes, but a few are especially prominent:
- Portuguese Millipede – This species, accidentally introduced to Australia, is one of the most common millipedes in South Australia. They are black, about 20-45 mm long, and often invade homes and gardens in large numbers.
- Native Millipedes – Australia’s native millipede species are generally less invasive but can still enter homes, especially in wetter months. These millipedes are beneficial to the ecosystem and play a key role in soil health.
- Spotted Snake Millipede – Brownish in colour, this species prefers soil-rich environments with abundant organic material. They are less invasive but may still enter properties that provide suitable shelter and food.
In Adelaide, the Portuguese millipede is the most problematic, often swarming in thousands. Their ability to rapidly increase in numbers, combined with their habit of migrating indoors, can make them a real nuisance.
Why Millipedes Invade Homes
Millipedes often enter homes to escape unfavourable outdoor conditions. Changes in humidity, temperature, and rainfall trigger migrations as millipedes search for a stable environment. Seasonal transitions, especially in autumn and spring, drive them indoors as they look for food and shelter.
Moisture is a significant attractant for millipedes. Properties with high moisture levels around foundations or in garden beds are more likely to experience millipede invasions. Millipedes also seek dark, sheltered spots, making basements, garages, and crawl spaces prime targets.
Do Lights Attract Millipedes?
Yes, millipedes are often attracted to light sources. At night, outdoor lights and brightly lit windows can attract millipedes toward buildings. Light-coloured walls and buildings can also make millipedes more visible, especially if they gather around light sources.
Reducing outdoor lighting during peak seasons or switching to yellow bulbs, which are less attractive to insects and millipedes, can help minimise this issue. Sealing windows and doors is also effective, as it reduces their ability to enter even if they’re drawn to the light.
Do Millipedes Pose Health or Safety Risks?
Millipedes are generally harmless to humans and pets. They do not bite or sting and are not carriers of disease. However, when threatened, some species release a chemical compound that can cause mild skin irritation. This secretion is usually harmless but can lead to mild discomfort if it comes into contact with skin.
While they pose no direct health threat, large numbers of millipedes can create unsightly conditions and cause inconvenience. Indoors, dead millipedes can accumulate, leaving behind a mess that attracts other pests or simply becomes a nuisance for homeowners.
Preventing Millipede Infestations
Although complete elimination is difficult, taking preventive measures can help reduce the chances of a millipede infestation. Here are some effective methods to deter them:
- Reduce Moisture Levels – Moisture attracts millipedes, so repairing any leaks around the home’s foundation is essential. Also, avoid overwatering gardens, as excess moisture encourages millipedes to thrive.
- Clear Organic Matter – Removing leaf litter, mulch, and other organic debris from the foundation of your home can deter millipedes. Organic material serves as food and shelter, so keeping areas clean limits their habitat.
- Seal Entry Points – Inspect and seal gaps around windows, doors, vents, and other possible entry points. Millipedes can enter through even the smallest cracks, so thorough sealing is crucial.
- Outdoor Lighting Adjustments – Use dimmer or yellow-toned lights outdoors to reduce attraction. Alternatively, place lights away from doors and windows to keep millipedes from gathering near entry points.
By following these steps, you can create an environment less inviting to millipedes. Regular maintenance is essential, as millipedes are persistent and will seek out suitable conditions.
How Jim’s Millipede Treatment Service Works
At Jim’s Pest Adelaide, we offer a comprehensive millipede treatment and removal service that starts with a detailed inspection of your property. Our team identifies high-risk areas, moisture issues, and potential entry points to ensure a targeted approach. Here’s what our process involves:
- Thorough Inspection – We assess both indoor and outdoor spaces to identify millipede hotspots, focusing on shaded, moist areas and common entry points.
- Targeted Treatment – We apply specialised treatments to key areas, using environmentally friendly solutions to deter millipedes without harming the environment. This treatment includes creating a perimeter around the property to block further infestations.
- Exclusion Advice – After treatment, we provide homeowners with advice on reducing moisture, clearing organic debris, and sealing entry points. This step helps maintain control over millipede numbers in the long term.
- Follow-Up Treatments – For severe infestations, we may recommend follow-up treatments to ensure millipede numbers remain under control. Our technicians assess the effectiveness of the initial treatment and make adjustments as needed.
With our expert guidance, we aim to keep millipedes out of homes and maintain a safe, comfortable environment.
Seasonal Patterns and When to Seek Millipede Removal
Millipede populations peak during autumn and spring, as these seasons bring optimal conditions for their activity. Homeowners often notice more millipedes during these times, particularly after heavy rains. In Adelaide, these seasonal spikes mean regular inspections and preventive treatments are beneficial during transitional months.
If millipedes become a recurring issue, professional pest control services are the most reliable way to reduce their impact. At Jim’s Termite and Pest Control Adelaide, we’re here to help homeowners manage millipede infestations throughout the year.
FAQs about Millipedes
What attracts millipedes to my property? Millipedes are drawn to moisture, organic material, and shelter. Properties with mulch, damp soil, or leaf litter near the foundation are especially attractive. They also enter homes when outdoor conditions are too dry or cold, searching for stable environments. Can millipedes harm humans or pets? No, millipedes don’t bite or sting. Some species release a mild irritant that can cause skin discomfort but is generally harmless. They are not known to carry any diseases that can affect humans or pets. Why do millipedes seem more active in certain seasons? Millipedes become more active during wetter seasons or after rain. In autumn and spring, they tend to migrate indoors as they search for stable, humid environments. Seasonal changes in temperature and moisture trigger these migrations. Does lighting around my home affect millipede activity? Yes, millipedes are attracted to light. Bright outdoor lighting, particularly white lights, can draw them toward buildings. Reducing outdoor lighting or switching to yellow bulbs can help limit their attraction and discourage them from gathering near entry points. How long does a typical millipede treatment last? The effectiveness of a millipede treatment can vary based on environmental conditions and property maintenance. Most treatments remain effective for months, especially when combined with preventive measures like moisture control and regular cleaning. Can I prevent millipedes without professional pest control? You can reduce millipede numbers by managing moisture, sealing entry points, and clearing organic debris. However, professional pest control provides more comprehensive, longer-lasting results, especially for properties with recurring infestations or high millipede activity.