![Image of a Millipede](https://cdn.domyown.com/images/content/millipede_on_white.jpg)
Millipedes are segmented insects that are often confused with centipedes. While they won't bite or sting, large amounts of millipedes can be a nuisance, especially if they get inside your home or building.
Read our guide below to identify what millipedes look like.
Millipedes vs. Centipedes
![Graphic showing the differences between a millipede and a centipede](https://cdn.domyown.com/images/content/millipede_vs_centipede.jpg)
Millipedes and centipedes are often confused for one another. A few differences between the two:
- Millipedes have 2 pairs of legs per body segment while centipedes have 1 pair of legs per each body segment
- Millipedes move slowly, while centipedes move quickly
- Millipedes mostly eat decaying organic matter. Centipedes are carnivorous, injecting their prey with venom to kill before eating.
- Millipedes do not bite. Instead, when scared, they will secrete a sticky substance that can cause an allergic reaction to humans upon contact. While rare, a centipede may bite humans. These bites are not typically life threatening.
- Millipedes curl into a tight ball or coil as a defense mechanism. Centipedes do not.
![Image of a millipede in its environment](https://cdn.domyown.com/images/content/millipede_on_branch.jpg)
Most millipedes found in North America will be 1-2 inches long. They grow longer as they age. Some millipedes can grow up to 14 inches long.
![Graphic showing millipede anatomy](https://cdn.domyown.com/images/content/milipede_anatomy.jpg)
Millipedes have long, worm-like bodies divided into many body segments. These segments help the millipedes move in their signature wave-like pattern.
Millipedes have 2-4 pairs of legs per body segment. The legs are barely visible if looking at the millipede from above.
In comparison, centipedes only have 1 pair of legs per body segment, and their legs are longer.
![Image showing the color of a millipede](https://cdn.domyown.com/images/content/millipede_on_rocks.jpg)
Millipedes are typically brown or black. Brown millipedes may appear to be a reddish-brown or rust color.