Lithobius forficatus

Latin: Lithobius forficatus

This very common centipede can reach a length of 3 cm. It is easily found by turning over stones in the garden or by searching under loose bark.

It sometimes occurs in compost heaps and outhouses, or in piles of dried leaves, and occasionally one comes indoors during its nocturnal hunt for prey.

Centipedes are very sensitive to desiccation so they do not survive long indoors, except in damp cellars.

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Henri Mourier

Biologist at Statens Skadedyrslaboratorium

Author of:
"Pests in House and Home"
"Bed Bugs - Bites, Stings and Itches"
"Food Pests"
"Husets dyreliv" (Insects Around the House - Only danish)
"Skadedyr i træ" (Timber Pests - Only danish)
"Stuefluen" (Common Housefly - Only danish)