Armadillo-like Pillbugs Invade Northern New Jersey Homes
Most people describe them as tiny, gray armadillos. Called pillbugs but also known as wood lice, these small pests are not actually insects but tiny crustaceans like shrimp and crayfish. Pillbugs have seven pairs of legs attached like fringe to flat, oval bodies. Their bodies are covered with overlapping protective plates that give them their armadillo-like appearance. When disturbed, pillbugs curl up into a distinctive protective ball.
From 1/2 to 3/4 inch long and gray to brown in color, these damp-loving pests are typically found in basements and under garden rocks. Pillbugs feed on decaying organic matter and have a particular taste for garden mulch. You may see dozens of them scurrying for cover when you turn the compost pile or rake garden mulch.
Pillbugs typically live in dark, damp outdoor environments. Unfortunately, the unusually hot weather that has blanketed northern New Jersey this summer has sent scores of these pests scurrying indoors in search of moisture. In northern New Jersey, pillbugs are becoming a problem not just in basements and crawl spaces but in bathrooms and laundry rooms.
An annoying but not harmful New Jersey nuisance pest, pillbugs are one of many common household pests covered by Heritage Pest Control’s Home Protection Plan. Our Home Protection Plans provide regularly scheduled home inspections and pest control treatments by experienced northern New Jersey pest control professionals. Home Protection Plans keep your northern New Jersey home safe and pest-free year round. Visit our website to find out more.
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