Centipedes usually lay 15-55 eggs clustered together in the soil although the eggs of some species are laid singly. The eggs hatch soon after they are deposited. The female will usually guard the eggs and the newly hatched young. Young centipedes closely resemble the adults and require 3 years to mature. Centipedes are rather long-lived and individuals may live up to 6 years.
Millipedes are worm-like, cylindrical animals with many body segments.
Most of the body segments bear two pairs of legs. Millipedes tend to coil up tightly when disturbed and some species can secrete a foul smelling fluid. Millipedes feed on decaying vegetable matter and are often found under stones, flower pots, boards or similar debris where there is abundant moisture. Occasionally after rains or during cold weather, large numbers of millipedes may migrate into buildings. They can climb foundation walls and enter homes through any small opening.