Signs of millipedes
Portuguese millipedes (Ommatoiulus moreleti) are an introduced species, first recorded in WA around Roleystone in 1986, and are now well established across the Perth metro area. They breed in autumn and early winter, laying eggs in the soil from around March to May, which is why homes can go from millipede-free to swarmed within days of the first solid rain. Because they're attracted to light, homes backing onto bushland or with garden beds close to the house tend to see the heaviest activity.
Large numbers of dark, cylindrical, worm-like insects moving across paths, walls, or driveways, particularly after the first autumn rains
Millipedes curling into a tight spiral when disturbed
A pungent, unpleasant smell where millipedes have been crushed underfoot or against a wall
Yellowish staining on paving, walls, or clothing from the secretion they release when threatened
How we get rid of millipedes
Assessment
The property is checked for likely breeding areas, mulch beds, leaf litter, and damp, shaded spots close to the house.
External barrier treatment
A residual spray is applied to external walls and out 2 to 3 metres, so millipedes are treated before they reach the building.
Garden bed treatment
Mulch and leaf litter areas near the home are treated where millipedes are breeding or sheltering.
Seasonal follow-up
Millipede numbers are driven by rainfall and season, so a follow-up treatment the next autumn is common rather than a sign the first treatment failed.
Millipede pricing
All prices include GST
A guide only — the final price can vary with property size and how established the problem is.
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Oh wow. I've just realised my home built in 2006 is now 20 years old and the team from Elite have never missed keeping us safe from unwanted pests year on year. Latest call out is to Mason. Great professional job young man.
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Millipede control FAQs
Millipede treatment covers an external barrier spray and treatment to garden beds where millipedes are breeding or sheltering — see the pricing above for the current rate.
No. They don't bite, sting, or carry disease. The main issue is the sheer number that can invade a property at once, and the smelly yellowish secretion they release if crushed, which can stain skin, clothing and flooring and irritate eyes if rubbed in.
Treatment controls the current swarm, but Portuguese millipedes are a seasonal pest driven by autumn rainfall, so numbers often build up again the following year. A follow-up treatment each autumn is the most effective way to keep them under control long term.
Portuguese millipedes are attracted to light, so homes with exterior lights left on, or bright interior lights visible through windows, tend to draw larger numbers after rain. Reducing outdoor lighting during peak season can help alongside treatment.
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