Sowbugs (roly-polies)

APPEARANCE:
Sowbugs and Pillbugs are similar-looking pests which are more closely akin to shrimp and crayfish than to insects. Sowbugs and pillbugs range in size from 1/4 to 1/2 inch long and are dark to slate gray.

HABITAT:
Sowbugs and pillbugs thrive only in areas of high moisture, and tend to remain hidden under objects during the day. Around buildings they are common under mulch, compost, boards, stones, flower pots, and other items resting on damp ground.

DIET:
Sowbugs and pillbugs are scavengers and feed mainly on decaying organic matter. They occasionally feed on young plants but the damage inflicted is seldom significant.

LIFE CYCLE/REPRODUCTION:
Frequent sightings of these pests indoors usually means that there are large numbers breeding on the outside, close to the foundation. Since sowbugs and pillbugs require moisture, they do not survive indoors for more than a few days unless there are very moist or damp conditions.

TYPES OF DAMAGE:
Although they sometimes enter in large numbers, they do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, nor do they infest food, clothing or wood. They are simply a nuisance by their presence.

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