Sowbugs in Cleveland
Sowbugs and pillbugs are often confused with one another due to their similar appearance. The key difference is that pillbugs, also known as roly-polies, can roll into a tight ball when threatened. The sowbug cannot do this as it has a tail-like appendage out of the rear of its body, preventing it from rolling up for protection. Both are found throughout the United States with sowbugs being recognized by the hard individual plates on their backs. Sowbugs require moisture for survival, so unless there are very damp or moist conditions indoors, they will likely not survive more than a few days.
Sowbug Habitat
Sowbugs are attracted to moist environments and commonly live under fallen leaves, rocks, and mulch. They are scavengers that feed primarily on organic matter when they come out to eat at night. They require humid conditions for survival during the day and will crawl around on patios, sidewalks, and foundations at night. Sowbugs are known to invade damp basements, crawl spaces, and ground-level floors of structures.
Sowbug Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Sowbugs are considered a nuisance pest as they are harmless to people. They cannot bite or sting and do not cause damage to household items. When feeding on plants, they can damage the roots, but this is the extent of their damage. Entry points for sowbugs to invade buildings include thresholds, especially found level sliding glass doors. Sowbugs inside the home are usually indicative of a large outdoor population of the insect. If you suspect a sowbug issue, contact your local pest control company.
