Common Desert Centipede
Scolopendra polymorpha
The common desert centipede lives in arid and semi-arid parts of western North America, sheltering under rocks, logs, bark, and loose soil during the day. It is a nocturnal predator that hunts insects, spiders, and other small animals with rapid lunges and venom-bearing forcipules beneath the head. Despite its name, it often depends on humid microhabitats to avoid drying out. This species is notably variable in color, giving rise to the scientific name polymorpha, meaning “many forms.”
- Type
- Venom
- Conservation status
- NE