Pillbugs, also known as roly-pollies, are interesting creatures that are common pests in the Pacific Northwest. Interestingly enough, pillbugs are more closely related to shrimp and crabs than they are to insects. These creatures are part of the isopod family and are actually not an insect at all – they are known to be a part of the crustaceans family. Pillbugs have the distinct feature of rolling up into small balls when they feel threatened. This helps protect their underbelly and is where they get the nickname roly-poly.
Pillbugs need moisture in order to survive which is why these creatures are commonly found under rocks, in gardens, or in other damp, cooler areas. They mainly come out during the night when the temperatures a cooler and the area around them is more moist and damp compared to the daytime. Pillbugs primarily eat organic matter and help play an important role in recycling nutrients in their ecosystem and environment.
Pillbugs are thankfully not harmful to humans. These creatures do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases. They also do not typically enjoy their time indoors. Because pillbugs thrive in damp environments and eat organic matter, there are not many things inside people’s homes that attract them. If you see a pillbug in your home, it most likely entered there by accident. The best thing you can do is simply pick up the roly-poly and place it back outside.
While roly-polies can roll into a tight ball for protection, this behavior is used as a defensive mechanism only. Pillbugs cannot roll quickly or use it as a form of transportation. You will usually see these pill-like bugs crawling from place to place collecting food or seeking shelter.
The best thing you can do to ensure pillbugs stay outside of your home is to seal any potential entry points. It is also important to consider the moisture levels within your home. Because pillbugs are attracted to areas that are dark with organic matter, you may want to check any live plants you may have in your home. It is also recommended to clear away organic debris, such as dead leaves or mulch, from around your home. This will reduce the food source of pillbugs and keep them further away from your home’s foundation.
A common place for pillbugs to live is inside crawl spaces. Crawl spaces provide the perfect ecosystem for roly-polies, especially if there is organic matter piled close to the home. The best way to prevent pillbugs from finding this home is to ensure proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces. Ventilation can help reduce the humidity in your home and make these places less appealing to roly-polies.
If you notice an infestation of pillbugs near or in your home, contact your local Insight Pest Solutions. This is a common creature we treat for and want to help make your home a better place!