Pill Bug or Sow Bug
Pill Bug or Sow Bug Armadillidiidium vulgare
Diet: Dead or decaying animals, sometimes plants.
Activity: Some species are nocturnal.
Preferred Climate: Humid
Defense: Roll up when disturbed.
Cautions: Not a threat
Home Invasion: Primarily live outdoors. Will come indoors if moisture and food available.
Physical Features
They have a hard exoskeleton, three basic body parts, and are dark gray to white. They have seven pairs of legs and two pairs of antennae. They have appendages at the end of their abdomen called uropods. Females have growths at base of some legs to hold eggs while they are developing. Breathe through gills since they are isopods.
Life Cycle
Complete metamorphosis
The female holds up to 100 eggs in pouches at the base of her legs. Immatures will stay in pouch after hatching for a few days. They look similar to adult forms. They will molt 4-5 times before becoming sexually mature.
Habits
Helpful Hints for Control
- Eliminate moisture near or in home.
- Recommend regular pest control service plan.
Interesting Fact
Molting occurs in two stages. The first half sheds then the second half sheds, therefore, the pill bug can be two different colors when this is happening.
