Why are There So Many Millipedes in Colorado Right Now?

Colorado is no stranger to unique bugs. Last year, the state experienced an invasion of destructive Mormon crickets, and this spring it's expected that the cicada population will be on the rise throughout the region.

Recently, another distinct insect has been appearing in the Centennial State.

While out and about in Colorado lately, residents in some parts of the state are noticing an excessive amount of long, smooth bugs squirming across the sidewalks. In places where they are present, these blackish/brown insects seem to show up every few feet. These tiny inch-long arthropods are coiled up in small balls if not stretched out, making them harder to see.

The insects in question are millipedes - but why are so many around Colorado lately?

The main reason is due to the changing of the seasons. Millipedes thrive in moist environments and infestations usually occur during periods of high precipitation. In Colorado, this is generally in the spring and fall.

Millipedes are tunnelers and will seek places of maximum moisture underground in Colorado. They primarily eat decaying plant material - don't be surprised if you see these worm-like bugs in your backyard during the next few months.

Fortunately, they do not bite and are not harmful to people. Millipedes cannot cause structural damage, but can still become a nuisance if they get inside a home or building. If millipedes do make their way inside a structure, try to decrease or eliminate the moisture in that room to discourage their presence.