Scolopendra is a carapace centipede. Most often, it lives in tropical warm climates. In temperate zones, this centipede is very rare. However, some varieties of scolopendra can also be found in the southern regions of Russia.
The scolopendra is about fifteen centimeters long. Her body is brown with a slight greenish tint. Scolopendra, found in the southern regions of the country, are not particularly aggressive, they usually do not bite. However, the mucus secreted by this centipede is very harmful to human skin.
Scolopendra is a nocturnal creature, it is at this time of day that it is most active. There are often cases when this creature crawls into houses and tourist tents, which in itself is already unpleasant. During the day, the centipede hides in a secluded place and practically does not manifest itself in any way.
Is scolopendra dangerous?
In general, centipedes are not aggressive creatures, they only try to protect themselves from danger. A frightened centipede is capable of a lot, first of all, it starts to run away quickly or even jump (quite high). If you take a scolopendra in your hands or accidentally step on it with your foot, then, of course, the centipede can bite, although most often it simply releases a huge amount of burning mucus.
Scolopendra living in Russia are not particularly poisonous. Most often you can find a ringed scolopendra, its length is about ten centimeters. This variety is dangerous only in the spring and autumn seasons, this is the peak of its toxicity. Tropical scolopendra pose a real danger to humans; they can cause extensive burns and inflammation of the skin, which are accompanied by edema and fever. In the Philippines, death has been reported from a scolopendra bite. A person with a bite or burn of scolopendra should immediately treat the affected area with an antiseptic (preferably alcohol), apply a sterile bandage and be sure to consult a doctor.
What does scolopendra eat?
The centipede spends most of its time underground or in the dark, so it does not have good eyesight, but the touch of this centipede can only be envied. This allows her to be an excellent hunter. The main prey of scolopendra is various insects. Tropical centipedes grow to a considerable size, so they can even hunt birds, frogs and lizards.
However, scolopendra try to spend as little time as possible on the surface, because they are much more comfortable underground. The process of eating these centipedes is very long. They immobilize the victim with poison, and then begin to chew it slowly and thoroughly.