Centipede Mothers Are Surprisingly Gentle

Most people think of centipedes as creepy, venomous pests — but what if we told you that they are also a surprisingly devoted mom? Meet Toscano, the giant desert centipede. Known for its lightning-fast movements and painful venomous sting, this fierce predator hides a tender secret: she's one of nature’s most attentive mothers.

After laying her eggs, this venomous mom gently curls her body around them, shielding her offspring from predators and parasites. She even uses her mouthparts to clean off bacteria and mold — a surprisingly nurturing behavior for such a fierce-looking insect. And the care doesn’t stop there: Toscano stays wrapped around her hatchlings until they’re strong enough to fend for themselves.

So next time you spot a centipede, remember: even venomous creatures can show astonishing acts of love and care.