Pillbugs in Central Arkansas
Found abundantly throughout the United States, pillbugs are among the few crustaceans that can live on land. They have a close resemblance to sowbugs and share a closer genetic affinity with shrimp and crayfish than with insects. Frequently referred to by their nickname, roly-polies, pillbugs possess a remarkable defense mechanism. They curl into tight balls when facing disturbance or danger. Their distinguishing characteristic lies in their segmented backs, comprising seven individual rigid plates. Due to their moisture requirement, pillbugs typically cannot survive indoors beyond short durations unless in environments with high humidity levels.
Pillbug Habitat
Pillbugs thrive in environments with ample moisture, commonly residing outdoors beneath layers of mulch, fallen foliage, and rocky terrain. Their nocturnal behavior necessitates humid conditions throughout the day. Often encountered alongside sowbugs, millipedes, and earthworms in moist soil, these crustaceans occasionally stray from their natural habitats at night, roaming across surfaces such as sidewalks, patios, and building foundations. However, their tendency to invade crawl spaces, damp basements, and ground-level floors of structures may cause inconvenience.
Pillbug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Pillbugs are non-aggressive insects that do not bite or sting, and they do not pose a risk to household items. While primarily regarded as a nuisance, particularly when they invade indoor environments, they do not harm people but can cause damage to plant roots through their feeding activities. Usually entering buildings through door thresholds, especially in homes with ground-level sliding glass doors, the sighting of pillbugs indoors is often a sign that there is a significant outdoor population.
If you have a pillbug problem in your Central Arkansas property, contact your local exterminators.
