Pill Bugs In Virginia

What do Pill Bugs Look Like?

Adult pill bugs grow to about 3/4 of an inch in length, slate gray, and oval shape. They have seven pairs of legs and two pairs of antennae, although one pair is not easy to see.

A segmented hard shell covers the body and allows them to perform their signature move, rolling themselves into a ball when they feel threatened. This defense mechanism is why these pests are also called rollie-pollies.

Pill bugs are one of the only land-living crustaceans and are related to crabs and lobsters. Though these crustaceans live on land, they still require a lot of moisture to survive.

Are Pill Bugs Dangerous?

Pill bugs pose no threat to people. They aren’t known to carry diseases that make us sick, and they don’t bite or sting. They are mostly unsightly, unwanted pests that homeowners don’t want living in their yards or homes in large populations.

Will Pill Bugs Damage My House and Property?

Pill bugs are scavengers, feeding mainly on decaying plants and other decomposing materials. Their feeding habits are beneficial in garden areas, helping get rid of dead or decaying plant materials.

Pill bugs can cause some damage in gardens as they nibble on young plants. However, their chewing mouthparts are not strong enough to damage mature plants.

These unique creatures live outside in damp areas under mulch, woodpiles, landscaping ties, trash cans, and garden areas. It is only when their living conditions become too dry outside that they migrate inside.

Pill bugs that find a way indoors seeking moisture do not cause any structural damage to our home. Yet, they still are an unwelcome sight in our homes! Also, if pill bugs have found a way inside your home, it is a good indicator that other pests will also find a way inside. 

Why Do I Have a Pill Bug Problem?

Pill bugs breathe using gills and air tubes located under the body. Pill bugs must live in very moist areas to get the oxygen they require, so their gills remain wet. If you have large numbers of pill bugs living near or inside your home, it indicates underlying moisture issues. Things like leaky pipes, dripping air conditioners, and clogged gutters allow water to collect and provide a perfect environment for pill bugs and other moisture-seeking pests.

How Do I Get Rid of Pill Bugs?

Partnering with All Pest Control & Solutions is the best way to get rid of pill bugs. We will help you eliminate pill bugs, discover what is attracting them, and put into place a plan of action to stop future problems with pill bugs and other pests.

If you are looking to protect your Salem or New River Valley area property from unwanted pill bugs, reach out today and learn more about our 100% satisfaction guaranteed pest control solutions!

Does All Pest Control Have Pill Bug Prevention Tips?

While difficult to control pests that live and breed outside, there are some steps you can take to make your property less attractive to pill bugs.

• Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of debris, so they are working effectively to direct rainwater away from the outside of your home.

• Clean up around the foundation of your home to reduce moisture. Rake back leaves and mulch, and cut back shrubbery from your home’s exterior walls.

• Inspect the foundation of your home, and use caulk or another material to seal any openings you discover.

• Keep trash cans and woodpiles up off the ground, and store them away from the outside of your home.

• Remove piles of leaves, grass clippings, and other debris that traps moisture and provides a suitable place for pill bugs to hide.

• Eliminate moisture in your home using air-conditioners, ventilated fans, dehumidifiers, and ventilating crawl spaces.