Sowbugs

What Are Sowbugs?

Sowbugs are small, crustacean-like pests similar to pill bugs, commonly found in damp environments. In Toms River, NJ, the climate and soil moisture make the area hospitable for these pests, especially around homes with a lot of landscaping or natural ground cover. Here's what you need to know about sowbugs:

Appearance

Sowbugs are small, typically 1/2 inch in length, and have a segmented, oval-shaped body. They are dark gray or brown and have a rough, slightly bumpy exoskeleton that appears almost armored. Sowbugs are often mistaken for pill bugs because of their similar size and shape, but one key difference is that sowbugs cannot roll up into a ball. They also have two small, tail-like appendages at the back of their body, which distinguish them from pill bugs.

Eating Habits

Sowbugs are detritivores, which means they feed primarily on decaying organic matter. Their diet includes dead leaves, wood, plants, and other decomposing organic materials. Unlike pests that attack living plants or structures, sowbugs are more beneficial than harmful outdoors because they help break down organic matter, returning nutrients to the soil. However, when they enter homes, they are considered a nuisance rather than a threat, as they typically do not damage wood or other building materials.

Living Habits

Sowbugs thrive in moist, shaded areas, preferring dark and damp environments. In Toms River, they're commonly found in gardens, under mulch, rocks, leaves, and in damp basements or crawl spaces. They rely on moisture for survival and can quickly dehydrate in dry environments, which is why they're often found in cool, moist places.

They are mostly active at night, hiding during the day and coming out to feed when it's dark and damp. When they accidentally wander indoors, it's usually because they are following moisture or food sources.

How They Get Into Homes

Sowbugs are not particularly adept at surviving indoors, as homes are usually too dry for them. However, they can enter houses through:

• Gaps in doors and windows: Small openings around doors, windows, and even screens can let them in.
• Cracks in foundation: Like many pests, they may use tiny openings in the foundation to enter.
• Moist basements and crawl spaces: If there is excess moisture, such as from leaks, they may find it more habitable.

Prevention and Control

1. Reduce Moisture: Controlling moisture levels is key to preventing sowbug infestations. Fix leaks, use dehumidifiers in basements, and ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces.
2. Clear Yard Debris: Sowbugs thrive in decomposing materials, so removing leaves, mulch, and firewood near the home can reduce their population around the foundation.
3. Seal Entry Points: Caulk gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation to prevent sowbugs from entering.
4. Use Perimeter Treatments: Applying a pest control barrier around the outside foundation of the home can help reduce the chances of them coming inside.
5. Keep Indoor Areas Dry: Because they can't survive long without moisture, sowbugs often die quickly once indoors. Using fans or ventilation to keep indoor areas dry will make the environment less suitable for them.

Sowbugs aren't harmful to humans and don't cause structural damage, but if they enter in large numbers, they can be bothersome. With proactive moisture management and sealing of potential entry points, you can effectively keep them out of your home.

Similar Pests: Pill Bugs, Stink Bugs, Kudzu Bugs, Boxelder Bugs