Stone centipede

Natural Habitat

Found in moist environments such as leaf litter, under rocks, logs, and in soil; often found around gardens and houses.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator feeding on small invertebrates like worms, spiders, woodlice, and small insects; hunts by injecting venom using forcipules (modified front legs).

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; they are fast runners and lack the long legs of house centipedes. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial to gardens by controlling pests; they are shy and hide during the day. While they can bite if handled, it is rarely serious for humans, typically causing localized swelling similar to a bee sting.

Identified on: 3/10/2026