Milipede
Scientific Name: Class Diplopoda (often Narceus americanus or similar species in North America)
Order & Family: Order Julida or Spirobolida (varies by specific species family)
Size: 1 to 5 inches (2.5 to 12.7 cm) depending on the species.
Natural Habitat
Damp, dark environments such as leaf litter, under rocks, rotting logs, and garden soil.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivores; they primarily eat decaying plant matter, rotting leaves, and fungi.
Behavior Patterns
Slow-moving and nocturnal. When threatened, they typically curl into a tight spiral to protect their soft underside and may secrete a foul-smelling liquid.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by recycling nutrients back into the soil. They are generally harmless to humans, though some species can secrete fluids that irritate the skin or eyes; they do not bite or sting.
Identified on: 2/27/2026