Found in compost heaps and under stones in gardens, the white-legged snake millipede is a common minibeast. Despite its name, it has about 100 legs. It is an important recycler of nutrients, feeding on decaying matter.
There are a number of millipede species in the UK, the most familiar being the black, cylindrical Tachypodoiulusspecies, such as the white-legged snake millipede. This millipede can be found under rocks or in rotting trees in gardens and woodland. Millipedes are very long, many-segmented invertebrates that live in the soil, under rocks, or under the bark of trees. They are vegetarians, eating mildew and decaying vegetation, and perform a useful nutrient-recycling function in various habitats.
How to identify
The white-legged snake millipede has a shiny black, long, cylindrical body and contrasting white legs. Millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment of their body, whereas similar centipedes have one. The white-legged snake millipede has about 100 legs. There are many millipede species in the UK, which can be difficult to tell apart.
Distribution
Widespread.
Did you know?
White-legged snake millipedes will curl up into a ball if disturbed and can release a pungent fluid from their sides to deter predators.
