House Centipede Ontario: Identification, Risks, and Control Tips

Published by Phox February 9, 2026

House centipedes in Ontario may surprise homeowners with their rapid movement and numerous legs, but understanding these arthropods can turn fear into control.

The human centipede hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

The human centipede hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy

Source: www.alamy.com

Understanding House Centipedes in Ontario Homes

House centipedes, or Scutigera coleoptrata, are common indoor pests in Ontario, especially in basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. Despite their intimidating appearance, they pose no danger to humans—they feed on smaller insects like spiders and mosquitoes. Their long legs and quick reflexes help them navigate tight spaces, making them efficient hunters despite their size.

House centipede in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on August 22, 2023 ...

House centipede in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on August 22, 2023 ...

Source: www.gettyimages.com

Signs of an Infestation and What Attracts Them

Spotting house centipedes often indicates an underlying pest issue, as they thrive on soft-bodied insects. Common attractants include excess moisture, cluttered areas, and easy access through cracks or gaps in foundations. While a few centipedes aren’t a cause for alarm, multiple sightings suggest the need for thorough pest management to prevent escalation.

House Centipede Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

House Centipede Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Source: www.gettyimages.ie

Safe Control and Prevention Strategies

To manage house centipedes safely, seal entry points, reduce humidity, and eliminate hiding spots. Use natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils such as peppermint. For persistent infestations, contacting licensed pest control professionals ensures effective and safe removal, protecting both your home and health.

House centipede in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on August 22, 2023 ...

House centipede in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on August 22, 2023 ...

Source: www.gettyimages.com

While house centipedes in Ontario may seem alarming, they are indicators of ecosystem balance and manageable with the right approach. Stay vigilant, maintain a clean environment, and act promptly—your home deserves peace of mind without unnecessary fear.

house centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

house centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

Source: pestcontrolcanada.com

Learn the different types of centipedes in Ontario, AND how to identify them. How many of these species have YOU seen before? Centipedes are harmless to humans, but not exactly what you want to see in your home.

Real Monstrosities: House Centipede

Real Monstrosities: House Centipede

Source: www.realmonstrosities.com

There are more than 2,000 species of centipedes, and most prefer the outdoors than your kitchen floor. However, there is an exception: the house centipede or the Scutigera coleoptrata. Information about centipede control and removal, including facts, identification & behavior.

148 Human Centipede Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images - Getty ...

148 Human Centipede Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images - Getty ...

Source: www.gettyimages.ca

For fast, professional pest control call Orkin Canada today. Although approximately 70 different species of centipedes can be found in Canada, there is only one commonly found in Ontario basements - the house centipede (scutigera coleoptrata). Hailing originally from Mexico, house centipedes are one of the most common centipedes in North America.

Human Centipede Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Human Centipede Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Source: www.gettyimages.ca

They are nocturnal, will avoid light and can bite. Centipede Extermination Ontario What is a Centipede? Centipedes are sometimes called house centipedes or "hundred-leggers" because of their many pairs of legs. They are widely distributed throughout most of Canada, the United States and the world.

house centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

house centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

Source: pestcontrolcanada.com

Centipedes are rarely seen by humans due to their nocturnal activity and the speed at which. In Ontario, the house centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata) is the most common species of centipede that can become a nuisance in homes. One of the main reasons why house centipedes can become pests is their habit of living indoors.

House Centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

House Centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

Source: pestcontrolcanada.com

These insects are attracted to damp, dark environments and are commonly found in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Centipedes, millipedes, sowbugs, and pillbugs are arthropods (not insects), although they do enjoy the same living conditions as insects. These creatures are not harmful.

84 House Centipede Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images - Getty ...

84 House Centipede Stock Photos, High-Res Pictures, and Images - Getty ...

Source: www.gettyimages.com

They are merely unattractive and considered a nuisance, especially when found indoors. Centipedes are predators, carnivores with over 3,300 species of centipedes in the world and around 70 in Canada. Scutigera coleoptrata, the common house centipede, is greyish or brownish, flat, and 25.

Centipedes | Facts & Identification, Control & Prevention

Centipedes | Facts & Identification, Control & Prevention

Source: www.orkincanada.ca

Centipedes usually enter homes in search of their prey, which includes ants, spiders, and roaches. Centipedes are particularly drawn to dark, humid spaces such as bathrooms and basements. To keep centipedes at bay, it's important to treat other pest problems, dehumidify your space, and seal cracks.

House centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

House centipede - PEST CONTROL CANADA

Source: pestcontrolcanada.com

Top pest control service in the GTA for quick house centipede extermination. Guaranteed service for commercial and residential customers. Experienced and licensed technicians who can get the job done efficiently.

House Centipede | HGTV

House Centipede | HGTV

Source: www.hgtv.com

Eco.

Centipede: Complete Guide to Centipedes (Inside and Outside)

Centipede: Complete Guide to Centipedes (Inside and Outside)

Source: www.planetnatural.com