| Sowbugs and pillbugs | Sowbugs and pillbugs | Sowbugs and pillbugs are not insects. They are crustaceans and as such are more closely related to crabs, shrimp, etc. Sowbugs and pillbugs are often considered pests by gardeners because they are sometimes associated with gardens. They may be found under boards in gardens and in a variety of damp places. In many cases, they are found in rotting damp wood such as stumps or in cedar shakes where there is a moisture problem. They are generally considered as beneficial creatures due to their role in recycling nutrients.
Sowbugs are grayish in color and prefer damp habitats. Pillbugs are bluish-black. Unlike sowbugs, they can roll up into a ball like an armadillo when disturbed. They appear to tolerate drier conditions than sowbugs. Both can measure from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in length when fully-grown. Sowbugs are the major food prey of certain spiders. |
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