Pill Milipedes

Pill Milipedes are a type of Milipedes which are found in many parts across Sri Lanka. The colour varies from brown to black. They are known to curl up to a ball when frightened. These are creatures with exo-skeletons who roll for protection of their softer bellies. The exo-skeleton is made out of a protein which is quite hard and gives protection from predators. They have tiny legs, are slow moving and active mostly during the night. They feed on dead organic matter such as dead wood, dead leaves etc. They are known as ’Kithul Ataya’ (= Kithul seed) as they look exactly like a Kithul seed in colour, shape and size when curled up.

These insects are not venomous nor do they bite us. They are quite innocent and silent creatures which need to be left alone if you come across.