Soil Centipedes
Soil centipedes are very long and narrow. They can be found statewide in most soil under rocks and boards. As with all centipedes there is 1 pair of legs per body segment. Centipedes in this order have at least 29 pairs of legs.
Tropical Centipedes
These are the most commonly encountered centipedes in Kansas. Some species in the western half of the state can reach 6 inches, though most are less than 3 inches. They feed on insects under rocks and logs.
House Centipedes
House centipedes resemble “dust bunnies” as they run across the floor. They live in cellars and occasionally enter living areas, particularly in older homes. They feed on insects. In summer, they may leave houses and hunt outdoors.
Millipedes (Wire Worms)
All millipedes have 2 pairs of legs on most body segments. They get up to 3 1/2 inches long. They omit a foul odor and coil into a tight ball as a defense mechanism. They feed on decaying organic matter.