Gray crustaceans that roll into balls when disturbed, helping decompose organic matter in gardens while occasionally wandering into Chicagoland homes.
1/2 to 3/4 inch long
Gray to dark gray
Under rocks & logs
Decomposer - Beneficial
Discover the fascinating biology of these beneficial decomposers and why they're actually crustaceans, not insects.
Eco-Friendly Approach: Remember that pill bugs are beneficial decomposers! Consider relocation rather than elimination when possible.
These fascinating creatures are much more interesting than you might think!
Like their aquatic cousins, they have gill-like structures
Can roll into a perfect sphere when threatened
Process up to their body weight in organic matter daily
Females carry eggs in a pouch like marsupials
When pill bug populations become problematic, our experts provide eco-conscious solutions that respect their beneficial role while protecting your property.
Identify and address moisture sources attracting them
Habitat modification and exclusion methods
Solutions that consider their beneficial role