Sowbugs – Porcellio scaber – Porcellio laevis – Onciscus asellus

Sowbugs (Porcellio scaber, Porcellio laevis, Onciscus asellus) Latin Name: Porcellio scaber, Porcellio laevis, Onciscus asellus Common Name: Sowbugs Appearance: (Porcellio laevis) and pillbugs or roly-polies (Armadillidium vulgare), sometimes known as “woodlice,” are outdoor animals that are frequently misidentified as insects. They are 14 to 12-inch length, dark to slate grey, and have seven pairs of legs. Pillbugs do not have tail-like appendages like sowbugs. When startled, pillbugs can roll into a ball. This habit has earned them the moniker “roly-polies.” Territory: Much of northeastern North America and southern Canada Damage caused by Sowbugs: Sowbugs and pillbugs enjoy moist environments. They can be found under mulch, compost, stones, flower pots, and other damp ground conditions. They do not bite people or cause structural damage, but many can destroy plants in a greenhouse. Life history and Habits: Both are nocturnal and are commonly observed in the garden or near structures beneath damp, decomposing debris. Before hatching, the eggs are carried in their mother’s abdominal pouch for 3 to 4 weeks. They molt 4 to 5 times after exiting the pouch for a year before becoming adults. Their lifetime is around two years.