DESCRIPTION

Woodlice, also called pill bugs, are not insects. Like lobsters and shrimp, they belong to the class Crustacea. They are part of the suborder Oniscidea in the order Isopoda.
These small, oval-shaped, grayish crustaceans measure approximately 13 to 15 mm in length. Their backs are covered by a soft shell. They have seven pairs of legs and two pairs of antennae. There are several different species of woodlice, but the most well-known is the common woodlouse.
Spider on web

DEVELOPMENT

Female woodlice lay their eggs in their brood pouch, where they will hatch. They keep their young in this pouch for about 40 days. They have a litter of 24 to 28 young, which can live up to two years.
Woodlice cannot live in dry places; they prefer dark, damp areas. They live in forests, fields, and near water sources. They can be found under dead wood, stones, decaying leaves, plants, and stumps. They can also hide in manure or compost. They feed on decaying organic matter.
Sometimes woodlice enter our properties and hide in the basement or other damp places. When there are many woodlice inside, there are even more outside.
They are harmless to humans but can cause a lot of damage in your garden. They reproduce very easily and, in large colonies, can kill your plants in a short time.

PREVENTION

  • 01
    Ventilate the rooms in your house regularly (especially rooms with high humidity levels!)
  • 02
    Call a plumber if you have a water leak. When there are woodlice inside your house, it's usually due to a moisture problem or a water leak.
  • 03
    Collect dead leaves and dead wood around your house, especially near ventilation grilles.
  • 04
    Ensure that exterior drains and gutters are clear of debris.
  • 05
    Close and seal any openings or gaps around windows and doors.
  • 06
    Place flower pots away from windows and doorways.

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Lower the humidity in areas where woodlice have been observed, as they thrive in damp, dark environments such as under stones or among plants. Reducing watering in affected areas can make these spots less suitable for breeding.
  • Run a dehumidifier or fan to keep basement humidity low, and regularly check that the foundation is well sealed and free of cracks.
  • Frogs, toads, lizards, and birds are natural predators of woodlice. Consider encouraging them by installing artificial birdhouses or maintaining a pond on your property if possible.
  • Get in touch with professional exterminators to assess the extent of the infestation and determine the safest and most effective way to eliminate these crustaceans.