Centipede

Believe it or not, this multi-legged creature is actually a distant cousin of lobsters, crayfish and shrimp. But unlike his cousins, the centipede only lives on land.

Usually found in moist, protected places such as under rocks, rotted logs, leaf piles or bark, he feeds on small creatures such as insects. He has powerful jaws that he uses to grasp his victim and inject it with venom.

The centipede has been known to bite humans, producing a reaction similar to that of a bee sting.

Fascinating Facts

• One leg up. A centipede has one pair of legs on each body segment. Millipedes have two.
• Foot long. The largest centipede lives in Central America and can grow to 12 inches!
• Aging gracefully. Some centipedes have been known to live up to six years.

Learn about other Occasional Invaders: