Pillbugs

Description

This pest is the only crustacean that has become completely adapted to spending its life on land. Pill bugs have oval bodies and seven pairs of legs. They are easily recognized by their back, which is made up of seven hard individual plates. Pill bugs are sometimes referred to as rollie-pollies.

Pest Facts

Color
Dark brown to black

Legs
Fourteen

Shape
Oval; round when rolled up

Size
3/4 inch

Antennae
Yes

Flying
No

Region
All 50 states

Habits

Pill bugs eat decaying vegetable material and are most active at night. They are known for their ability to roll into a ball.

Habitat

Pill bugs live in moist locations. They are found under damp objects or vegetable debris.

Threats

Pill bugs do not spread diseases or invade food products. However, the pill bug is often considered a pest when it gains entry into a home.

Prevention

Pill bugs can be avoided by eliminating food sources such as vegetable or plant debris. If pill bugs enter a structure, they will often dry out and die.

All information contained within is sourced directly from the National Pest Management Association.