How to Effectively Remove Pillbugs and Sowbugs from Your Home
Pillbugs and sowbugs may seem like pesky creatures when they find their way into your home, but did you know that they actually serve a valuable ecological purpose outdoors? They are small crustaceans, not bugs or insects, related to crayfish, and are commonly known as woodlice due to their preference for feeding on decaying wood material. While they are harmless and beneficial in outdoor environments, they can occasionally become indoor pests when seeking out decaying plant material in damp areas of your home.
Understanding Pillbugs and Sowbugs
Pillbugs belong to the Armadillidium vulgare species, while sowbugs are officially labeled Oniscus asellus. Both species fall into the same family of terrestrial crustaceans, known for their rounded exoskeletons. Despite their similar appearance and behavior, they are distinct species with unique characteristics.
Biology and Behavior
- Most often found outdoors in moist areas beneath stones, rocks, and leaf litter
- Scavengers feeding on decomposing organic matter
- Can live up to three years, with a simple reproductive cycle that involves females carrying eggs in a pouch on their abdomen
Harmless Outdoor Creatures, But Indoor Pests
- Pillbugs and sowbugs play a crucial role in breaking down dead wood material outdoors
- They can become indoor pests when seeking decaying plant material in damp areas such as basements or crawl spaces
- While they may be unsettling in appearance, they are harmless and pose no risk to humans
Effective Methods to Eliminate Pillbugs and Sowbugs from Your Home
Here are four proven strategies to get rid of pillbugs and sowbugs in your home by addressing their habitat and food sources:
1. Remove Decaying Material
- Lift piles of damp cardboard or plywood to uncover hiding pillbugs and sowbugs
- Get rid of decaying wood or plant-based material where they feed
- Check structural framing for decay and replace damaged wood to eliminate hiding spots
2. Remove Moisture Sources
- Dry up moist areas where pillbugs and sowbugs thrive
- Correct water runoff issues that keep conditions moist
- Keep the ground around exterior walls dry to discourage these pests
3. Cover Damp Areas With Diatomaceous Earth
- Sprinkle DE (diatomaceous earth) on habitually wet surfaces to absorb moisture
- DE serves as a repellant for pillbugs and sowbugs
4. Spray With Garlic Solution
- Spraying damp floors with a garlic/water solution can deter these pests
- A pepper solution may also have a similar effect on pillbugs and sowbugs
Preventing Pillbugs and Sowbugs from Entering Your Home
Preventing pillbugs and sowbugs from entering your home is key to keeping them at bay. Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps around your foundation and entry points to reduce their access indoors. Pay special attention to ground-level areas and moisture sources where these creatures are likely to congregate. Additionally, maintain a clear area around your foundation to discourage them from migrating indoors.
Warning
While chemical pesticides can be used as a last resort, it’s important to avoid toxic chemicals when possible due to their potential health risks. Opt for non-chemical methods first and only resort to insecticides labeled for sowbugs/pillbugs if necessary.
Understanding the Difference Between Pillbugs and Sowbugs
Pillbugs and sowbugs are similar in appearance and behavior, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart:
– Pillbugs (Armadillidium vulgare): Curl up into tight pill-like balls, also known as potato bugs or roly-polies
– Sowbugs (Oniscus asellus): Slightly larger, flatter creatures with a tail-like structure
The Role of Pillbugs and Sowbugs in Ecology
Despite being occasional pests indoors, pillbugs and sowbugs play a valuable ecological role outdoors by breaking down dead plant material and returning organic nutrients to the soil. They serve as a food source for songbirds, toads, and other small predators, contributing to the natural ecosystem.
In conclusion, while pillbugs and sowbugs may seem like unwanted guests in your home, they are harmless creatures that serve a vital function in the environment. By understanding their behavior and habitat preferences, you can effectively eliminate them from your living space while appreciating their ecological significance. Remember to prioritize non-chemical methods of pest control and maintain a clean, dry environment to prevent these occasional invaders from becoming a nuisance in your home.
