House Centipede (molted exoskeleton skin)

Scientific Name: Scutigera coleoptrata

Order & Family: Order: Scutigeromorpha; Family: Scutigeridae

Size: Adult body length 25–35 mm (1.0–1.4 in); with legs, can reach up to 10 cm (4 in) in diameter.

House Centipede (molted exoskeleton skin)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in damp, dark environments such as basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces, but originates from the Mediterranean region.

Diet & Feeding

Insectivorous predator that feeds on other household arthropods like spiders, bed bugs, termites, cockroaches, silverfish, and ants.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and extremely fast-moving. They hunt actively rather than building webs. As they grow, they molt their exoskeleton (as seen in the image), often leaving behind a ghostly 'skin' that looks like a crumpled version of the insect.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial as they eat household pests. They can bite humans if handled roughly, causing a sting similar to a bee, but are typically harmless and non-aggressive.

Identified on: 3/3/2026