Stone centipede

Natural Habitat

Typically found in damp environments such as under rocks, leaf litter, decaying logs, and in garden soil.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator feeding on small invertebrates like spiders, slug larvae, small worms, and soft-bodied insects.

Behavior Patterns

Fast-moving and nocturnal. They use their modified front legs (forcipules) to inject venom into prey. They are long-lived relative to many insects, often surviving for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to gardens as they hunt pests. While they possess venom, they are generally not dangerous to humans; a bite might cause mild localized irritation similar to a bee sting if handled roughly.

Identified on: 3/10/2026