During the autumn months, Tennessee residents may find that centipedes and millipedes are beginning to turn up in their residences. These particular critters, which look superficially like worms, typically prefer dark areas that are away from the presence of humans. Most amateur extermination techniques will be ineffective, and homeowners will generally need to call in the professionals to eliminate the insects. Experts will usually use sprays and other chemical solutions to eradicate the critters before they can become more firmly established.

Centipedes

Centipedes can grow to be six inches long. Each body segment contains one set of legs. This body design allows the insects to scurry for cover quite rapidly. Because centipedes feed on other insects by injecting them with toxins, homeowners will need to be especially careful if they spot these critters in the basement or attic. While most centipede bites feel very much like bee stings and are not overtly dangerous, some people might experience severe allergic reactions.

Millipedes

Millipedes have two legs for each body segment. Unlike centipedes, millipedes use their limbs to move over the ground in a wave-like fashion. This makes them considerably slower than their larger counterparts. Millipedes do not have fangs and are not capable of injecting venom into other animals. They can, however, produce noxious fluids when they feel threatened. These fluids act as irritants and can cause the skin to become red and blotchy. Because millipedes eat plant roots, they can also cause significant damage to both indoor and outdoor plants.

Professional Pest Control

In all instances, property owners will require the assistance of professional exterminators to remove centipedes and millipedes from the property. In addition to being unsightly, many species can cause physical harm, especially to small children and pets. As long as the extermination process is initiated as soon as possible, the critters will quickly be eliminated from the residence.