Description, Elimination of Sowbugs
Pillbugs and sowbugs though similar are different bugs that fall into the pest category of occasional invaders. Sowbugs and pillbugs are crustaceans and are closely related to crayfish and shrimp, more so than to insects.
Often confused with pillbugs, one of the distinct differences of sowbugs is that they do not roll up into a ball as is the habit of a pillbug or "rolly polly" as they are often called.
Sowbugs prefer damp areas, which is why they are often found invading homes through openings close to patio doors, laundry rooms and basements. These bugs feed on decaying vegetation most often found in mulched areas around homes. The damp conditions and decaying organic debris are contributing factors for several occasional invaders such as millipedes. Elimination procedures for sowbugs parallel those for millipedes and pillbugs.
If contributing conditions such as excess moisture can be controlled, it
would be a great aid in Sowbug elimination. In many cases found close to
flower beds, gardens, flower pots, landscaping, swimming pools, ponds or any
heavily mulched area, a good insecticide spray or insect bait is to be used.