Millipedes can be distinguished from centipedes by their greater leg count. While they do not have thousands of legs they do have two short pairs per body segment while centipedes only have one long pair per segment. Millipedes are also know to be slow-moving while centipedes are much quicker. 

Millipedes feed on decomposing plant material and prefer to remain outdoors. Millipedes prefer dark moist areas and typically come out at night. They are frequently found in high moisture areas such as under leaves, in mulch beds, or under rocks.