Giant Centipede
Small Beast, unaligned
50 XP
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving throw or take 10 (3d6) poison damage. If the poison damage reduces the target to 0 hit points, the target is stable but poisoned for 1 hour, even after regaining hit points, and is paralyzed while poisoned in this way.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Giant Centipedes are ambush predators that excel in surprise rounds. Position them in dark caves, dense vegetation, or underground tunnels where they gain advantage on Stealth checks. Use their Poison Bite (DC 11 CON save) to potentially incapacitate weaker party members. These encounters work best as a swarm of 3-5 creatures rather than single opponents, allowing them to pose a credible threat.
Combat Tactics
Giant Centipedes attack the nearest target with their venomous bite, prioritizing creatures that appear weakest or most isolated. They are simple hunters without complex strategy; they flee if reduced below half HP or if their nest is threatened. Use their low AC and HP against them by having creatures focus fire to eliminate them quickly.
Environment & Setting
Damp underground caverns, flooded dungeons, fungal forests, or the Underdark provide ideal habitat. They favor dark, moist environments with plenty of crevices for hiding and ambushing prey.