Can centipedes bite me?

Answer 1

Some species are highly venomous but none can cause death in humans who are not allergic.

The house centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata) is a fast-moving carnivore that feeds on insects such as cockroaches, house flies, and other small house pests, and is thus domestically beneficial in nature. Though generally harmless to humans, its alarming appearance and painful bite (like a bee sting) result in its extermination from residences.

Answer 2

Yes, the house centipede is capable of delivering a painful little bite, maybe not as severe as a bee sting but close. The larger centipedes (Scolopendra) which are quite capable of killing scorpions, mice, lizards etc, are quite capable of causing a severe bite to a person. Because all centipedes are venomous, their bites can pack quite a punch. The larger Scolopendras can be so severe that many people must seek medical attention after being bitten. They are not considered fatal, but dangerous none the less.
All centipedes are predatory (with little exception) so they have the necessary tools to bite, many of them are equipped with large sickle-like mandibles which close horizontally, capturing and killing their prey.

Hope this helps!

Answer 3

None in the us are dangerous but in india and malaysia there are large 12 inch long centipedes which can catch and eat larger prey such as birds, bats, tarantula-like spiders, lizards, lots of stuff. Their bite is extremely painful to humans though it will not cause death unless you are allergic to it.

Answer 4

If they do, just bite 'em back