Centipedes: they’re creepy, crawly, and often misunderstood. With their segmented bodies, a dizzying number of legs, and predatory instincts, these creatures certainly grab your attention.
Thinking about a centipede sale? This guide is for you! We’ll cover everything you need to know before buying one of these fascinating invertebrates. We’ll explore different species, the ins and outs of centipede care, legal considerations, and the ethics of keeping them as pets.
It’s important to remember that buying any pet requires research and a commitment to responsible ownership. Centipedes can be venomous, and they’re escape artists, so making an informed decision is key. Let’s dive in!
Centipede Species Available for Purchase
If you’re looking to buy a centipede, you’ll find there are a few different species available. Here are some of the most common:
Popular Beginner Species
- Scolopendra subspinipes (Vietnamese Centipede): These centipedes are relatively hardy and easy to find for sale. They come in a range of colors and are of a decent size. They don’t require too specialized of care.
- Hemiscolopendra marginata (Florida Keys Centipede): These centipedes are smaller than the Vietnamese variety and tend to be less aggressive. They need a humid habitat, so it’s important to mist them regularly.
Advanced and Less Common Species
- Scolopendra gigantea (Amazonian Giant Centipede): These centipedes are enormous and can be dangerous. They should only be kept by experienced keepers.
- Ethmostigmus trigonopodus (Tanzanian Blue Ring Centipede): These centipedes have a unique blue coloration. They can be difficult to source and need specialized care.
Considerations for Choosing a Species
- Temperament and Handling: It’s important to know that centipedes are defensive and can bite. Most centipedes are not suitable for handling.
- Size and Enclosure Requirements: The size of the centipede dictates the size of the enclosure you’ll need. The enclosure needs to be very secure to prevent escapes.
Setting Up a Centipede Habitat
So, you’ve decided to buy a centipede? Great! Now, you need to create a comfortable and secure home for your new little friend. Here’s how to do it:
Enclosure Selection
First things first, you’ll need an enclosure. The size will depend on the species of centipede you’re getting. Think about whether you want a glass or plastic enclosure. Glass is easier to see through, but plastic is lighter and less likely to break.
Security is key. Centipedes are escape artists! Make sure the lid fits tightly. Latches or clips are a great way to make sure your centipede stays put.
Substrate and Humidity
Next up is the substrate, which is the material that lines the bottom of the enclosure. You’ll want something that holds moisture well, like coconut fiber or peat moss. Centipedes like to burrow, so make sure you provide a deep layer.
Maintaining the right humidity is also important. You can mist the enclosure regularly or provide a shallow water dish. Too much or too little humidity can be harmful, so pay attention to your centipede’s behavior.
Heating and Lighting
Centipedes need a temperature gradient, meaning different areas of the enclosure should have slightly different temperatures. Heat mats or ceramic heat emitters can help you achieve this.
Most centipede species don’t need much light, so special lighting isn’t usually necessary. If you want to be able to see your centipede better, you can use low-intensity LED lights.
How to feed and water your centipede
So you’ve bought a centipede! Now, what do you feed it?
What to feed your centipede
Centipedes are predators, so they need live prey. Crickets, mealworms, and roaches are all good choices. Before you feed insects to your centipede, “gut load” them by feeding them nutritious foods. This ensures that your centipede gets the most nutrients possible.
How often to feed your centipede
How often you need to feed your centipede will depend on the species and age of your centipede. As a general rule, try offering food every few days. The amount of food your centipede will eat depends on its size. Start with one or two appropriately sized insects.
How to water your centipede
You can give your centipede water in a shallow dish or by misting its enclosure. Always make sure the water is clean and fresh.
Legality, ethics, and responsible ownership
Before you buy a centipede, there are some important things you should know about the legality of owning one, along with some ethical issues to consider.
Legality of centipede ownership
Each state and locality has its own laws about keeping exotic pets. You’ll need to research the laws in your area to be sure it’s legal to own the species you’re considering. Also, there may be restrictions on whether you can bring a centipede into the country or take it out.
Ethical considerations
It’s best to buy your centipede from a reputable breeder or supplier rather than taking one from the wild.
Once you own a centipede, you’re ethically bound to provide the proper care and housing it needs.
Responsible ownership practices
Centipedes can be escape artists, so you’ll want to make sure their enclosures are secure. If one does get loose, have a plan for how to safely recapture it.
Also, remember that centipedes can bite. It’s best to handle them with tongs, if you handle them at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are centipedes hard to get rid of?
Getting rid of centipedes in your home can be tricky. Since they thrive in damp environments, reducing moisture is key. Seal cracks and crevices, clear away leaf litter, and consider using dehumidifiers. Insecticides can help, but targeting their food source (other insects) is often more effective. If you’re dealing with a large infestation, professional pest control might be necessary.
What is the best beginner centipede?
If you’re considering a pet centipede, the Scolopendra subspinipes—often called the Vietnamese Centipede or Orange-Legged Centipede—is a popular choice for beginners due to its hardiness. However, it’s still crucial to research their specific care requirements, including temperature, humidity, and enclosure size. Remember, all centipedes are venomous and require careful handling.
Can I have a pet centipede?
Yes, you can keep centipedes as pets, but it’s a significant responsibility. They require secure enclosures, specific temperature and humidity levels, and a diet of live insects. Centipedes are venomous, and their bite can be painful, so handling should be minimized and done with extreme caution. Research the specific needs of the species you’re interested in before acquiring one.
The Bottom Line
Centipedes aren’t your typical pet, but their fascinating behavior and relatively low-maintenance needs make them a unique choice for experienced invertebrate keepers.
If you’re considering bringing a centipede into your home, make sure you do your research first. Understand their specific care requirements, and always source your centipedes ethically. Responsible ownership is key to the well-being of these fascinating creatures.
Keep learning! Join online forums and connect with local reptile and invertebrate groups to expand your knowledge and share your experiences with other centipede enthusiasts.