Sowbugs and Pillbugs are Isopods that resemble small armadillo-like creatures. They are often found in moist areas of basements, beneath debris, rocks, or boards in gardens. Both are wingless and are related to crustaceans, such as shrimp, crayfish, and lobsters. They are not insects.
Sowbugs (sometimes known as woodlice) have two tail-like appendages at the tip of the abdomen. They normally feed on decaying organic matter. However, if their numbers become very large, they may damage the roots and leaves of plants.
Pillbugs are similar in appearance to sowbugs, except that they roll into a ball when disturbed. Their tail-like uropods (last abdominal appendages) are rounded rather than pointed like sowbugs. Both are typically found in areas with abundant moisture and are particularly noticeable in years of high rainfall. They are most active at night and are likely to be found under boards, rocks, garbage, or decaying vegetation. Dark, damp basements are also preferred hiding spots. They often cluster together to conserve moisture.
Reproduction of these Isopods takes place in the spring. Eggs are carried by the female in a brood pouch on the underside of the body. They hatch in three to seven weeks, and the young remain in the brood pouch for another six weeks. Some species have only one brood per year, while others have two. They are inactive during the winter, and some may live as long as three years.
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