An aquarium can be a great place for your centipede. For a large centipede, choose a 20-gallon tank, and a 10-gallon tank for a small one. In both cases, make sure you have a screen lid with securing clips. [2] X Research source You can also use a large plastic container to house your centipede. A 9-10-inch plastic tub with a secured lid and perforated top could work. However, be warned that it is possible for centipedes to chew through these tubs.
You can use a heating pad, night bulbs or ceramic heaters to make sure their habitat is warm enough. You should also worry about keeping the humidity up for your centipede, however, since each of these methods could dry out your cage. You can use a dish filled with water to keep their habitat humid enough. It will need to be regularly filled to maintain proper humidity.
Your centipede’s habitat should not be brightly lit. During the evening hours, their cage should be kept in a dimly lit area. To observe your centipede during the evening, get a nocturnal light that gives off heat without much light. You can see the centipede, but it will still think it’s night in the habitat. [3] X Research source
The substrate should be at least as deep as the centipede’s length. They prefer to be hidden away during the daytime hours. You can use a variety of materials for your substrate. It should be able to retain moisture and tolerate the centipede’s burrowing. You can potting compost, peat moss, or soil for the substrate. Peat moss is the best since it prevents mold growth due to the habitat’s high humidity.
Feed your centipede at least twice a day. If there is any food left in their habitat after feeding, remove it with forceps from the habitat. Your centipede can be injured if it has to fight its prey. Don’t give your centipede any live animals bigger than half the size of the centipede.
Your centipede needs to be able to safely hunt live prey. Insects give to the centipede should be smaller than your centipede. Do not feed your pet centipede wild insects. Wild insects could have been in contact with pesticides that could be lethal to your centipede. Purchase small insects at a local feed or pet store.
Centipedes should be able to handle soft-bodied prey easily. Only the smallest centipedes could have problems hunting an earthworm. Buy soft-bodied prey at a feed or pet store. You can usually get earthworms at a local fishing or tackle shop.
Be sure any arachnid you provide your centipede is not venomous. Venomous spiders may hurt or even kill centipedes. [6] X Trustworthy Source US National Park Service Agency responsible for the maintenance and promotion of national parks and monuments Go to source
Use lizards and rats for a very large centipede. They should be able to use their venom to safely neutralize these animals and eat them. Your centipede may not eat all prey. If it sits for 24 hours without being eaten, get rid of it to avoid rotting. [7] X Research source
Centipedes get most of their water from their food. However, a water dish is necessary to maintain the proper humidity level in their habitat. Use enough water to keep your centipede from drying out. When they dry out, it is usually caused by loss of moisture through the spiracle openings.
Centipede venom is not deadly to humans, but it can cause many problems, including fever, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Additionally, their venom can also cause allergic reactions. Use protective gloves if you must handle your centipede. Centipedes can be deceptively quick, so make sure your gloves cover enough of your arms as well.
Maintain a gentle, yet firm grip on your centipede. You want to be careful not to injure it, but you keep control of its movements. Also look where the centipede is going at all times to make sure it does not bite you and harm you
Centipede bites consist of two puncture wounds with redness and swelling. They may occasionally cause headaches or dizziness as well. [10] X Research source Wash out your centipede bite with warm water and soap. Ice the bite or use analgesic gel if the area is swollen. If the bitten area does not stop hurting after a day or so, consult a doctor. See a doctor immediately if you have any other symptoms, including rapid heartbeat or a fever. You may be having an allergic reaction.
