Aussie terrified by 'nightmare' critter at home—is it dangerous?

Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one can present its own set of risks and dangers and is sometimes a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


Screen Shot 2023-09-01 at 3.20.21 PM.png
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one presents its own set of risks and dangers and is always a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


View attachment 28891
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
I have never seen one and hope I never do🙀especially in my undie drawer😂or shock horror in my undies🤮
 
Last edited:
Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one can present its own set of risks and dangers and is sometimes a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


View attachment 28891
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
I have seen a few of these in my house will leave them be but go in the bed you will be evicted. I don’t like spiders but if I don’t see them I am ok
 
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Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one can present its own set of risks and dangers and is sometimes a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


View attachment 28891
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
CREEPY!!!! That sucker would be squashed by my foot in a heavy boot if i saw one! I hate things with those 'clingy' legs. ugh!
 
Shortly after my daughter moved into her brand new house in Perth she found a scorpion in her living room!

My younger daugher lives on a farm in NSW and during the floods last year, she found a brown snake in her house. She and her youngest son were the only ones in the house, so she used her broom to move the snake out of the house and then killed it, still with the broom.

I don't know how I would have reacted.
 
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Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one can present its own set of risks and dangers and is sometimes a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


View attachment 28891
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
I wonder if they taste like chicken? :)
 
  • Haha
Reactions: 52KID
Ah, Australia—the land of golden beaches, barbies, and seemingly endless brushes with insects and wildlife, both tame and wild.

More often than not, these run-ins can be quite amusing, and if you're familiar with the type of critter you're dealing with, they might even be quite cute!



But while it might sound like all those wild encounters put Aussies in an enviable position, it's the opposite; each one can present its own set of risks and dangers and is sometimes a sight that requires a double take.

That was the case for an Australian who encountered an extremely peculiar creature in their home and couldn't believe their eyes.


View attachment 28891
People were shocked by the sight of the strange creature, but they're more common than you think. Credit: Reddit.



That is why they took to social media to share a photo of the strange critter. Unsurprisingly, it instantly caught the attention of many other Australians, who were just as baffled and shocked as the homeowner.

The photo shows a large, creepy-looking black bug with dozens of extremely long legs; some have described it as 'nightmare material'.

One user wrote, 'What is that?', while countless others picked up on the fact that house centipedes are indeed a speedy little critter, with one user warning, 'Those little fellas are fast. And I mean real fast.'



However, there was no cause for alarm, as the insect in question is a non-threatening native species known as the house centipede, which can have up to 191 legs.

Ciaran Mathewson, an expert from the Australian Museum, explained that the bug's body is divided into many tiny segments, each of which has one pair of legs.

As the name suggests, house centipedes are typically found in homes and across urban areas and forests. They can usually be seen scurrying around with only their fast legs visible.

'They have modified their front legs into venom-filled appendages called forcipules. However, it is not common at all to be stung,' Mr Mathewson added, explaining that the forcipules are 'not very strong', making it hard for them to pierce human skin.



But if one does happen to successfully pierce your skin, the symptoms will likely consist of a sensation similar to that of a bee sting—redness, pain, and a general feeling of discomfort.

So, while we don't recommend personally handling them or attempting to remove them with a pair of tweezers, we also want to point out that having a house centipede around isn’t as terrifying as it seems.

That's because they're actually incredibly beneficial to humans. These native creatures feed on insects like silverfish, bed bugs, and cockroaches, which are considered pests in homes.

Key Takeaways

  • A photo of a large, intimidating insect found in an Australian home was posted on social media, shocking and scaring followers.
  • Despite its terrifying look, the Australian Museum confirmed it's a harmless house centipede, found across the country and known for having up to 191 legs.
  • Though scary to look at, the centipedes have weak venom-filled appendages, making it hard for them to pierce human skin. If stung, it has been likened to a bee sting.
  • Moreover, having them in the home can be beneficial as they feed on insects considered pests, such as silverfish, bed bugs, termites and cockroaches.



You read it here, members! These tiny creatures might just be the unsung heroes quietly and sneakily helping you with your pest problem at home. So, if you ever see one peacefully slithering around, don't bother it! You never know; it might be in the middle of a 'job'!

Have you ever encountered one in your home? Did it resemble the photo above? Or perhaps you've come across other critters in your space? Share your stories with us in the comments below!
Just be thankful that you don have to buy shoes for it.
 
Shortly after my daughter moved into her brand new house in Perth she found a scorpion in her living room!

My younger daugher lives on a farm in NSW and during the floods last year, she found a brown snake in her house. She and her youngest son were the only ones in the house, so she used her broom to move the snake out of the house and then killed it, still with the broom.

I don't know how I would have reacted.
Shame snakes are protected if it was outside it would have slithered away😔don’t leave doors open😁
 
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I know some insects scare people but we need to learn to live with them. They are very beneficial to us, many dine on cockroaches, silverfish etc. I keep a large jar to rescue any that venture into our home and release them outdoors. As someone else mentioned, they are more terrified of you.
 
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