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Desert Millipede

desert_millipede_sm.jpg: Desert millipede
Range: Southwestern United States
Habitat: Deserts
Conservation Status: Not listed by IUCN
Scientific Name: Orthoporus ornatus

These desert dwellers feed mostly on decaying plant material. They live in burrows that they build themselves, emerging after summer rains. They often find their way into buildings in search of dry ground.  When disturbed, desert millipedes curl up and emit a nasty substance that irritates a predator's skin and eyes.