Woodlouse

Scientific Name: Oniscidea

Order & Family: Order Isopoda, suborder Oniscidea

Size: Typically 5mm to 15mm in length.

Woodlouse

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark places such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and occasionally in basements or bathrooms.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly detritivores, eating decaying plant matter, fungi, and sometimes animal remains.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moisture-seeking. They often congregate in large numbers to conserve moisture. Some species can roll into a ball (pill bugs) when threatened.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting. Benefit ecosystems by recycling nutrients through the decomposition of organic matter.

Identified on: 3/20/2026