Woodlouse (specifically a Sowbug)

Scientific Name: Porcellio scaber

Order & Family: Order Isopoda, Family Porcellionidae

Size: 10 to 20 mm in length

Woodlouse (specifically a Sowbug)

Natural Habitat

Moist, dark environments such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and occasionally damp indoor areas like basements.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivore; primarily consumes decaying organic matter, rotting wood, and fungi.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal land-dwelling crustacean; unlike pillbugs, sowbugs cannot roll into a complete ball. They rely on high humidity to breathe through gill-like structures.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. They are beneficial decomposers that help cycle nutrients in the soil, though they can be considered a nuisance if they enter homes in large numbers.

Identified on: 6/1/2026