Pill Bug Or Sow Bug

• Home›
• Pest ID›
• Pill Bugs/Sow Bugs

What do pill bugs/sow bugs look like?

These nuisance pests have hard exoskeletons, 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 the base of some legs to hold eggs while they are developing. They breathe through gills since they are isopods. They are commonly known as “roly-polies.”

Life cycle of pill bugs

Complete metamorphosis

The female holds up to 100 eggs in pouches at the base of her legs. Immatures will stay in the pouches after hatching for a few days. They look similar to adult forms. They will molt 4-5 times before becoming sexually mature.. 

Habits of pill bugs/sow bugs

• 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.

Are pill bugs/sow bugs dangerous?

Pill bugs/sow bugs are mainly a nuisance pest and are medically harmless. 

Where do pill bugs/sow bugs live?

These occasional invaders typically and consistently nest in moist areas. 

Helpful hints about pill bugs/sow bugs

• Eliminate moisture near or in the home
• Minimize hiding places
• Remove items such as boxes, boards, stones, etc. since these often attract these bugs
• Humidity should be reduced in crawl spaces and basements
• Seal cracks and openings in the outside foundation wall and around doors and windows
• Recommend regular pest control service plan

Interesting facts about pill bugs/sow bugs

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.