Bug Identifier
Pill bug (roly-poly, woodlouse)
Community identification

Pill bug (roly-poly, woodlouse)

Armadillidium vulgare

Order & Family
Isopoda (within Peracarida); family Armadillidiidae
Size
Typically 8–15 mm (0.3–0.6 in) long.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, sheltered places such as leaf litter, soil, compost, under stones, and decaying wood; commonly found around buildings in damp areas.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivore feeding mainly on decaying leaves, wood, fungi, algae, and other organic debris; occasionally nibbles tender plant tissue.

Behavior Patterns

Mostly nocturnal and moisture-dependent. When threatened, it curls into a tight ball; females carry developing young in a brood pouch.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans and pets and does not bite or sting. It helps decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients, though large numbers may damage seedlings or enter damp buildings.