Giant African Millipede

Despite its name which means “one thousand feet” the millipede doesn’t have more than 400 feet.  At hatching it only has 3 pairs of legs, but each time it molts it adds two or three extra segments, each with two pairs of legs.

When disturbed the millipede curls in a coil to protect its head and underside.  It can also secrete a foul-smelling liquid to deter predators.

HABITATTropical and coastal forests
DIETDecaying plant matter
LIFE Expectancy5 years