Centipedes are frequently encountered in Hawaii, prompting questions about their origins and how to manage encounters, largely due to the painful nature of their venomous bite. Understanding the species that inhabit the archipelago provides clarity on why these creatures have earned such an infamous reputation. The characteristics and behavior of the largest centipedes are what cause the most concern.
Native and Introduced Species
Hawaii’s centipede population is a mix of native and introduced species. The islands host a few small, native species, such as those belonging to the orders Lithobiomorpha and Geophilomorpha, which are generally shy, rarely seen, and of no medical concern to humans. Their populations are thought to be declining due to habitat loss.
The large centipedes that thrive in Hawaii are invasive species responsible for the majority of human encounters and painful bites. They arrived accidentally, likely transported within shipments of goods, soil, or trade materials. Because the Hawaiian ecosystem is an isolated island environment, these introduced species often lack natural predators, allowing them to flourish and reach intimidating sizes.
The Giant Hawaiian Centipede
The invasive species responsible for most medically significant bites in Hawaii is Scolopendra subspinipes, commonly known as the Giant Centipede, Jungle Centipede, or Vietnamese Centipede. This arthropod is one of the largest centipedes in the world, capable of reaching lengths of up to 20 centimeters (nearly 8 inches). The body is typically dark green with a brown or reddish head, featuring 21 segments, each bearing a pair of yellow or yellow-orange legs.
The creature’s venom is injected through a pair of modified legs near the head, called forcipules, which act as sharp, venom-injecting claws. Scolopendra subspinipes is an active, aggressive predator that feeds on insects, spiders, and even small vertebrates like mice and reptiles. It is sensitive to nearby vibrations and will instinctively strike and inject its fast-acting venom when disturbed or threatened.
Encountering Centipedes
Centipedes are primarily nocturnal, hunting at night. During the day, they seek out dark, moist environments to prevent dehydration. Common outdoor hiding spots include under rocks, logs, leaf litter, mulch, and in soil crevices.
When weather conditions become too extreme—either too dry and hot or too wet—centipedes may seek shelter indoors. Inside a home, they gravitate toward high-humidity areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and damp closets, often hiding in shoes, clothing, towels left on the floor, or bedding. To prevent unwanted indoor encounters, several steps can be taken:
- Maintain a clean yard free of debris.
- Seal cracks and gaps in the foundation.
- Shake out shoes and clothing before use.
- Reduce moisture levels inside the home by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers.
First Aid for Centipede Bites
A bite from Scolopendra subspinipes typically results in immediate, excruciating, localized pain, often described as a burning sensation, followed by swelling and redness at the site. Systemic symptoms like nausea or headache are possible but rare, and the bite is rarely fatal to humans. The venom contains proteins that are susceptible to heat.
Immediate first aid involves cleaning the wound thoroughly with soap and water to prevent secondary infection. Medical professionals recommend applying a hot compress or soaking the affected area in hot water (as hot as can be tolerated without burning the skin) immediately after the bite. This may help denature the venom proteins and reduce pain duration. Following the initial application of heat, switching to a cold compress or ice pack can help manage the swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can be used to control pain and inflammation.
Seek professional medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe or signs of an allergic reaction appear, such as difficulty breathing, lightheadedness, or swelling that extends well beyond the bite site. A doctor may administer oral steroids or antibiotics, depending on the severity of the reaction or if a secondary infection is suspected.