Sowbugs and Pillbugs

Request service now online Or call now for free phone quote360 695-BUGS 503 289-0576 360 695-2847

Sowbugs and Pill bugs

For Centipedes and Millipedes information page click here

Both pill bugs and sow bugs feed primarily on decaying organic matter although occasionally they may damage the roots of green plants. Their normal habitat is outdoors, but they occasionally wander inside where they do no damage.

Sowbugs are often called woodlice and possess two tail-like appendages, seven pairs of legs, and well-developed eyes. They are incapable of rolling into a tight ball.

Pillbugs or "rolly-pollies" lack the tail-like appendages and can roll into a tight ball.

Habits and Biology

The habits, biology and control of sowbugs and pillbugs are similar. Both animals are slow-moving, crawling arthropods. They require high moisture and are most active at night. When resting during the day, they may be found under trash, rocks, boards, under decaying vegetation, or just beneath the soil surface. A heavy infestation indoors usually indicates a large population outdoors. Mulches, grass clippings and leaf litter often provide the decaying organic matter they need to survive.

Breeding can occur throughout the year in Florida. The female carries the eggs in a brood pouch on the underside of her body. Often there are 7 to 200 eggs per brood. The eggs hatch in 3 to 7 weeks and the young remain in the pouch another 6 to 7 weeks. Once the young leave the pouch, they never return. Some species produce only one brood per year, but others may produce 2 or more. Individuals may live up to 3 years.

Control

Sowbugs and pillbugs cause no damage inside the home. Simple mechanical control such as a broom and dustpan or a fly swatter may be adequate. If they become a serious nuisance, elimination of hiding places, food material and moisture sources will reduce the infestation. Source reduction outdoors will help considerably. Piles of leaves, grass clippings and fallen fruit should be removed. Boxes or boards and other debris should be stored off the ground to eliminate a moist shelter.

Got Spiders