Centipedes are easily recognized by their long, segmented bodies, many legs, and sensitive antennae. They can have 15 to 77 pairs of legs and move surprisingly fast, climbing walls and scurrying across floors. While centipedes can bite, their venom usually only causes minor soreness or redness—they aren’t a serious threat to humans or pets.

Here are a few fascinating facts:

1. Centipedes gain more legs as they age through molting.

2. They’ve existed for over 400 million years.

3. Despite their appearance, they can move over a foot in less than a second.

4. Larger centipedes can eat bigger prey, including insects, worms, and mollusks.

5. Some species, like the house centipede, can live up to six years.

Centipedes have natural predators such as birds, spiders, frogs, and snakes. Interestingly, house centipedes can actually help control pests like spiders and roaches. However, if they become numerous, they can be a nuisance. For significant infestations, professional pest control is the safest solution.