Our most common centipede around here is Scolopendra polymorpha. Their bodies generally reach 4–7 in (10–18 cm) in length, so this one was not a particularly large specimen. They can vary a lot in colour; I loved this guy’s turquoise legs!

Centipedes, including this one, can inflict an intensely painful pinch. They puncture the skin with a powerful pair of modified, hollow, clawed legs called forcipules located on the first body segment, immediately behind the head. Venom glands run through a tube, from inside the head to the tip of each forcipule. The venom may cause an allergic reaction in some people, so best not to pick one up with your bare hands.

Centipedes are carnivorous and nocturnal. They eat silverfish, cockroaches, spiders, crickets, bed bugs and moths, so maybe don’t be too sad if you find one in your house.