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Tiger centipede
Scolopendra polymorpha
A species of Centipede, Also known as Sonoran desert centipede, Desert tiger centipede, Banded desert centipede
The tiger centipede (Scolopendra polymorpha) has a combination of orange and black stripes which make them pretty easy to compare with a tiger. However, the size difference is pretty notable. They like to hang out under rocks but have been seen digging underground and hiding under logs.
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Animals
General Info About Tiger centipede
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Attributes of Tiger centipede
Colors
Black
Gray
Orange
Habitat
grassland; forest; desert
Adult Food Sources
Insects, spiders, small vertebrates (like lizards and rodents), earthworms, other arthropods
Larva Food Source
Small insects, larvae, dead and decaying organic matter
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Tiger centipede has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Tiger centipede can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
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Adult Size of Tiger centipede
10 - 18 cm
Predators of Tiger centipede Larvae
Frogs, toads, lizards, small mammals like shrews, small avian predators, larger arthropods, spiders
Predators of Adult Tiger centipede
Birds, mammals like shrews, moles, and badgers, large reptiles, large spiders, larger centipedes
Interesting Facts About Tiger centipede
The tiger centipede possesses the uncanny ability to regenerate lost limbs, giving it resilience few predators can overcome.
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How Can You Attract Tiger centipede
Small insects, such as crickets or mealworms, which are part of tiger centipede's natural diet.
When is the Best Time to Observe Tiger centipede
Nocturnal hours, because tiger centipede is more active and easier to spot during the night when it hunts.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Tiger centipede
Damp conditions after rain, as tiger centipede prefers moist environments and is more likely to come out of hiding.
How and Where Can You Find Tiger centipede at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Tiger centipede juveniles are smaller, but similar in appearance to adults, and can be found under logs, rocks, and in leaf litter. Carefully lift these objects to spot them without causing harm.
Adult Tiger centipede adults are larger and more conspicuous. Search for them at night using a UV flashlight along trails and near water sources where they might come to hunt or hydrate.
Are Tiger centipede harmful?
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The tiger centipede can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.
Are Tiger centipede harmful to humans?
Tiger centipede usually live in hidden places in forests or cities, and generally do not actively attack people. However, when it is disturbed, it is likely to bite, and severe pain and swelling will occur after being bitten by it.
Harmful Effects of Tiger centipede
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Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Toxic to Humans
Tiger centipede possess venomous fangs, known as forcipules, used to inject neurotoxic and cytotoxic venom into their prey, efficiently subduing them. In humans, a bite generally results in mild symptoms, such as local pain and swelling. However, given the presence of potentially harmful toxins, more significant health impacts may ensue, especially in sensitive individuals or through multiple bites. Severe cases may exhibit more troubling symptoms like tissue damage, but such extreme reactions are not commonly reported.
Toxic to Animals
The organism identified as tiger centipede possesses a peculiar means of defense and predatory mechanism by stinging, which can lead to a range of reactions from mild irritation to severe anaphylactic responses, especially in humans. When encountering animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and small mammals, a sting from tiger centipede might cause pain and swelling. Each affected species might experience different symptoms, depending on the amount of venom received and their individual sensitivities. The potency of tiger centipede's sting is most notable in its adult stage.
Bite Humans
Tiger centipede rarely bites humans, usually only in self-defense. The bite involves using forcipules to inject venom, causing immediate pain and mild reactions. Bites typically follow accidental human contact, with adult tiger centipedes having more potent venom than juveniles.