Pill Bugs: Identification, Behavior, and Treatment

Pill bugs, also known as roly-polies, are harmless crustaceans that are commonly found in Meridian, Boise, and the Treasure Valley area. While they are not harmful to humans or pets, pill bugs can become a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers. At Candor Pest Control, we provide effective solutions to keep your property pill bug-free.

Scientific Name

Armadillidiidae family

What Do Pill Bugs Look Like?

Pill bugs are easily recognized by their ability to roll into a ball when disturbed:

  • Color: Dark gray to black.

  • Size: About 1/4 to 1/2 inch long.

  • Shape: Oval, segmented body with a hard, shell-like exoskeleton.

  • Legs: Seven pairs of legs.

  • Unique Behavior: Pill bugs roll into a tight ball as a defensive mechanism.

Where Are Pill Bugs Found?

Pill bugs thrive in damp environments and are typically found in:

  • Gardens and Flower Beds: They feed on decaying plant matter.

  • Under Rocks and Logs: Pill bugs hide in dark, moist areas to avoid drying out.

  • Basements and Crawl Spaces: They may enter homes seeking moisture.

  • Mulch and Soil: These areas provide shelter and food sources for pill bugs.

Signs of a Pill Bug Infestation

Here are some signs that you may have a pill bug problem:

  • Sightings: Seeing pill bugs indoors, especially in basements or bathrooms.

  • Dead Pill Bugs: Finding dead pill bugs near windows or doorways.

  • Moisture Issues: Pill bugs are attracted to areas with high humidity.

Are Pill Bugs Dangerous?

Pill bugs are not harmful to humans or pets, but they can cause minor issues:

  • Nuisance Factor: Large numbers of pill bugs indoors can be annoying.

  • Plant Damage: Pill bugs may feed on young plants in gardens.

How to Prevent Pill Bug Infestations

Preventing pill bugs involves reducing moisture levels and eliminating hiding spots:

  • Reduce Moisture: Use dehumidifiers in basements and repair any leaks or plumbing issues.

  • Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your home for cracks in the foundation, walls, and windows, and seal them to prevent pill bugs from entering.

  • Remove Outdoor Debris: Clear away mulch, leaves, and other organic matter from around your home’s foundation.

  • Maintain Your Lawn: Keep your lawn well-maintained to reduce potential hiding spots.

Candor Pest Control’s Pill Bug Treatment Process

At Candor Pest Control, we offer comprehensive pill bug treatments to eliminate infestations and prevent future problems. Our process includes:

  1. Inspection: We conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify pill bug entry points and hiding spots.

  2. Targeted Treatments: We apply safe, effective treatments to eliminate pill bugs from your home.

  3. Sealing Entry Points: Our team provides recommendations to seal cracks and gaps to prevent future infestations.

  4. Ongoing Prevention: We offer tips and advice to help keep pill bugs from returning.

Why Choose Candor Pest Control for Pill Bug Control?

  • Local Expertise: We understand the unique pest challenges in the Treasure Valley area.

  • Family-Owned Business: We care about protecting your home and family from pests.

  • Guaranteed Results: We stand by our pill bug treatments with a customer satisfaction guarantee.

Contact Candor Pest Control

Call Candor Pest Control today at 208-795-9710 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule an inspection and keep your home pill bug-free!